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The Opera Sisters
Based on the true story of the Cook sisters, who smuggled valuables out of 1930s Nazi Germany to finance a daring, secret operation to help Jews find hope for a new life in England.
British sisters Ida and Louise Cook enjoy their quiet, unassuming lives in south London. Ida writes romance novels, and Louise works as a secretary. In the evenings, the sisters indulge in their shared love for opera, saving their money to buy records and attend performances throughout England and Europe, becoming well-known by both performers and fellow opera lovers.
But when Hitler seizes power in 1933, he begins targeting and persecuting German Jews, passing laws that restrict their rights and their lives. The sisters continue their trips to the German opera houses, but soon, Jewish members of the opera community covertly approach the sisters, worried that they will be stripped of their wealth and forced to leave their homes and the country. Danger looms on the horizon, threatening to spill across all of Europe’s borders.
Ida and Louise vow to help, but how can two ordinary working-class women with limited means make a difference?
Together with their beloved opera community, the sisters devise a plan to personally escort Jewish refugees from Germany to England. The success of the plan hinges on Ida and Louise’s ability to smuggle contraband jewelry and furs beneath the watchful eyes of the SS soldiers guarding various checkpoints. But how many trips can they make before someone blows a whistle? Or before the final curtain falls on Germany’s borders?
The Opera Sisters is a riveting and inspiring novel of two unlikely heroines whose courage and compassion gave hope to many Jews desperate to escape Nazi persecution.
British sisters Ida and Louise Cook enjoy their quiet, unassuming lives in south London. Ida writes romance novels, and Louise works as a secretary. In the evenings, the sisters indulge in their shared love for opera, saving their money to buy records and attend performances throughout England and Europe, becoming well-known by both performers and fellow opera lovers.
But when Hitler seizes power in 1933, he begins targeting and persecuting German Jews, passing laws that restrict their rights and their lives. The sisters continue their trips to the German opera houses, but soon, Jewish members of the opera community covertly approach the sisters, worried that they will be stripped of their wealth and forced to leave their homes and the country. Danger looms on the horizon, threatening to spill across all of Europe’s borders.
Ida and Louise vow to help, but how can two ordinary working-class women with limited means make a difference?
Together with their beloved opera community, the sisters devise a plan to personally escort Jewish refugees from Germany to England. The success of the plan hinges on Ida and Louise’s ability to smuggle contraband jewelry and furs beneath the watchful eyes of the SS soldiers guarding various checkpoints. But how many trips can they make before someone blows a whistle? Or before the final curtain falls on Germany’s borders?
The Opera Sisters is a riveting and inspiring novel of two unlikely heroines whose courage and compassion gave hope to many Jews desperate to escape Nazi persecution.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published September 6, 2022
88 people are currently reading
4839 people want to read
About the author
Marianne Monson
12 books170 followersMarianne Monson is a women's history author known for unearthing remarkable stories of incredible women. Her 2016 book, "Frontier Grit," was nominated for an American Library Association Amelia Bloomer Award, and her 2018 "Women of the Blue and Gray" was awarded a silver medal in the military category by Foreword Reviews.
Her work has been praised by reviewers:
"the biographies zing with personality and page-turning prose" -Publishers Weekly
"the diversity of her subjects is outstanding" -Booklist
"a deftly written work of fiction" -Midwest Book Review
"Monson is an excellent storyteller whose research fills in the gaps" -Foreword Reviews
Marianne lives in Astoria, Oregon, where she writes from a 100-year-old house. When not writing or reading, you can find her exploring nearby trails. You can follow her adventures at: www.mariannemonson.com.
Her work has been praised by reviewers:
"the biographies zing with personality and page-turning prose" -Publishers Weekly
"the diversity of her subjects is outstanding" -Booklist
"a deftly written work of fiction" -Midwest Book Review
"Monson is an excellent storyteller whose research fills in the gaps" -Foreword Reviews
Marianne lives in Astoria, Oregon, where she writes from a 100-year-old house. When not writing or reading, you can find her exploring nearby trails. You can follow her adventures at: www.mariannemonson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
September 6, 2022
**Publication Day**
"As they boarded a train bound for Holland, Ida and Louise pulled the mink coats around their shoulders...Two jackbooted SS men fell in step behind them...followed them into the compartment...They were laughing about crazy English ladies who spend all their money on chocolate and German opera." Love of opera and numerous trips to the opera houses of Germany and Austria allowed the unassuming Cook sisters to help many Jewish families escape from the Nazi regime in the 1930's.
Louise was a secretary, a London civil servant while Ida was a copying typist, two unmarried sisters in their thirties, living at home, saving their earnings to buy a gramophone. They wanted to listen to "the beauty of music...a concert hall in our front room." They frequented opera performances at Royal Albert Hall and attended parties with ordinary, though passionate opera enthusiasts. A summer outing was suggested. The Salzberg Festival, in the Alps, highlighted by conductors Clemens Krauss and Bruno Walter. How would they pay for tickets? Ida's idea was to submit an article to Mabs Fashions describing opera attire that could be made from Mabs dress patterns! Ida and Louise soon counted conductors and opera singers as acquaintances and friends as they visited the National Theater in Munich and the Bavarian State Opera.
As the Nazi regime tightened its hold on Germany and Austria, conductor Clemens Krauss approached the Cook sisters for help. Newly passed laws required Jewish houses and belongings to be registered with the Nazi government. "Everything above five thousand reichsmarks...without money, no foreign government will allow any of us entry." By smuggling jewels and furs belonging to those seeking refuge in England, perhaps a path to safety could be created. And so began the dangerous lifeline offered by the Cook sisters. Often travelling to Germany wearing simple clothing, holding tickets to attend a carefully chosen opera, they returned to England using a different border crossing, but bedecked in jewels and furs. They claimed that "we always took our valuables with us, because we didn't trust anyone with whom we could leave them at home." Each trip might unmask their hidden agenda to help Jewish and political refugees fleeing Nazism. Without sponsorship and secured, promised employment, all bets were off. Ida and Louise, tireless crusaders, would be honored as Righteous Among the Nations by Vad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.
"The Opera Sisters" by Marianne Monson is an historical fiction novel based upon the courageous, haunting, fact-based story of the Cook sisters and the many families they tried to save. The novel described the mission the sisters themselves "cobbled" together. How could two ordinary women, devoted opera-groupies, freely travel adorned in sparkling jewels and furs under the watchful eyes of German soldiers? Hidden-in-plain sight, "...no one would take [an] outsized pin for anything but costume jewelry from Woolworths." A highly recommended read.
Thank you Callie Hansen and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the print ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"As they boarded a train bound for Holland, Ida and Louise pulled the mink coats around their shoulders...Two jackbooted SS men fell in step behind them...followed them into the compartment...They were laughing about crazy English ladies who spend all their money on chocolate and German opera." Love of opera and numerous trips to the opera houses of Germany and Austria allowed the unassuming Cook sisters to help many Jewish families escape from the Nazi regime in the 1930's.
Louise was a secretary, a London civil servant while Ida was a copying typist, two unmarried sisters in their thirties, living at home, saving their earnings to buy a gramophone. They wanted to listen to "the beauty of music...a concert hall in our front room." They frequented opera performances at Royal Albert Hall and attended parties with ordinary, though passionate opera enthusiasts. A summer outing was suggested. The Salzberg Festival, in the Alps, highlighted by conductors Clemens Krauss and Bruno Walter. How would they pay for tickets? Ida's idea was to submit an article to Mabs Fashions describing opera attire that could be made from Mabs dress patterns! Ida and Louise soon counted conductors and opera singers as acquaintances and friends as they visited the National Theater in Munich and the Bavarian State Opera.
As the Nazi regime tightened its hold on Germany and Austria, conductor Clemens Krauss approached the Cook sisters for help. Newly passed laws required Jewish houses and belongings to be registered with the Nazi government. "Everything above five thousand reichsmarks...without money, no foreign government will allow any of us entry." By smuggling jewels and furs belonging to those seeking refuge in England, perhaps a path to safety could be created. And so began the dangerous lifeline offered by the Cook sisters. Often travelling to Germany wearing simple clothing, holding tickets to attend a carefully chosen opera, they returned to England using a different border crossing, but bedecked in jewels and furs. They claimed that "we always took our valuables with us, because we didn't trust anyone with whom we could leave them at home." Each trip might unmask their hidden agenda to help Jewish and political refugees fleeing Nazism. Without sponsorship and secured, promised employment, all bets were off. Ida and Louise, tireless crusaders, would be honored as Righteous Among the Nations by Vad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.
"The Opera Sisters" by Marianne Monson is an historical fiction novel based upon the courageous, haunting, fact-based story of the Cook sisters and the many families they tried to save. The novel described the mission the sisters themselves "cobbled" together. How could two ordinary women, devoted opera-groupies, freely travel adorned in sparkling jewels and furs under the watchful eyes of German soldiers? Hidden-in-plain sight, "...no one would take [an] outsized pin for anything but costume jewelry from Woolworths." A highly recommended read.
Thank you Callie Hansen and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the print ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2022
British sisters Ida and Louise Cook live in south London, Ida writes romance novels for Mills & Boon and Louise works for the civil service. The sisters love opera, they save up their money to buy a gramophone, and it came with ten bonus records, and they attend live opera performances. Ida and Louise travel aboard, they meet many of their favourite opera performers and became friends with them.
With the rise of power of Hitler, the sisters notice the changes in Europe, and Jewish people are the target of his radical ideas and laws. The sisters visit Germany on multiple occasions, using their love of opera as a cover for their numerous visits. At the Berlin opera houses, members of the Jewish community approach them, worried that they would be stripped of their wealth, forced to leave their homes and worse.
Ida and Louise offer to help, they smuggle jewellery and expensive furs out of Germany, and through high security German check points. To satisfy the English financial security requirements for immigration, Jewish people needed funds, a British citizen to sponsor them, and to receive the correct visas. Ida and Louise rent a house for refugees to live in, find sponsors for Jewish migrants, and help children to get a place on the kinder-transport.
Despite saving as many people as she could, Ida felt she didn’t do enough, she struggles with depression, and to overcome these feelings, she starts working in an underground bomb shelter and together she and her fellow Londoners endure the Blitz.
I received a copy of The Opera Sisters from Edelweiss and Shadow Mountain Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Marianne Monson has written an astounding narrative about two working class English sisters, who did extraordinary things, during a very dangerous time, they had courage, compassion and are truly inspirational women. The best historical fiction novel I have read this year, a story that will stay with me forever, and five big stars from me.
With the rise of power of Hitler, the sisters notice the changes in Europe, and Jewish people are the target of his radical ideas and laws. The sisters visit Germany on multiple occasions, using their love of opera as a cover for their numerous visits. At the Berlin opera houses, members of the Jewish community approach them, worried that they would be stripped of their wealth, forced to leave their homes and worse.
Ida and Louise offer to help, they smuggle jewellery and expensive furs out of Germany, and through high security German check points. To satisfy the English financial security requirements for immigration, Jewish people needed funds, a British citizen to sponsor them, and to receive the correct visas. Ida and Louise rent a house for refugees to live in, find sponsors for Jewish migrants, and help children to get a place on the kinder-transport.
Despite saving as many people as she could, Ida felt she didn’t do enough, she struggles with depression, and to overcome these feelings, she starts working in an underground bomb shelter and together she and her fellow Londoners endure the Blitz.
I received a copy of The Opera Sisters from Edelweiss and Shadow Mountain Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Marianne Monson has written an astounding narrative about two working class English sisters, who did extraordinary things, during a very dangerous time, they had courage, compassion and are truly inspirational women. The best historical fiction novel I have read this year, a story that will stay with me forever, and five big stars from me.
April 16, 2022
I've read so many novels about WWII but every time, I find something new that I had no Idea about.
this novel is based on a true story and is about Cook sisters, Ida and Louise. the Cook sisters eventually would end up helping Jews and other refugees from occupied countries to United Kingdom.
though some parts of the book got a bit overly wordy and boring (for me) but overall it was a really good read.
it's a very solid and researched story about actual events. historical fictions always had and always have a special place in my heart. I loved it dearly and highly recommend it.
thanks to NetGallery for providing my copy.
this novel is based on a true story and is about Cook sisters, Ida and Louise. the Cook sisters eventually would end up helping Jews and other refugees from occupied countries to United Kingdom.
though some parts of the book got a bit overly wordy and boring (for me) but overall it was a really good read.
it's a very solid and researched story about actual events. historical fictions always had and always have a special place in my heart. I loved it dearly and highly recommend it.
thanks to NetGallery for providing my copy.
September 27, 2022
The Opera Sisters tells the story of two sisters who spent the long years of WW2 saving as many lives as they could. Though few in number, the impact they had on each family they saved is infinite. This book is rich with historical detail, touching moments, and inspiration. One of the biggest takeaways readers can walk away with is this: Help others, no matter if those around you stay silent. Be brave, even when others hide away. Never give up, no matter if everyone else has. Because the impact we can make in a broken world when we refuse to stay silent or still is astounding.
(CW: N/A This book was squeaky clean!)
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The Opera Sisters. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
(CW: N/A This book was squeaky clean!)
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The Opera Sisters. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
August 29, 2022
This is a compelling WWII drama that left me in tears more than once. It is based on the true story of Ida and Lousie Cook, two sisters who helped Jews leave Germany and Austria until the borders were closed at the start of the war with England. Their courage and sacrifice are awe-inspiring and I was so touched by the level of their compassion and commitment. These women deserve to be remembered and honored!
The book does have kindof a different format. The fictionalized story of the sisters is interspersed with historical accounts and bits from the lives of those they rescued and it does take some getting used to but it is worth it to keep reading.
Also, this is a WWII novel so you can expect references to/accounts of concentration camps, suicide, beatings, degradation, starvation, etc. None of it goes into graphic detail but it is there and it is real. I appreciate that the author didn't shy away from these things but if you have trouble reading about them, this may not be the book for you.
If you enjoyed Slow March of Light by Heather Moore, you will most likely enjoy this one also. It is a deep and heavy read but offers a message of hope and goodness. Just make sure you have your tissues handy!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
The book does have kindof a different format. The fictionalized story of the sisters is interspersed with historical accounts and bits from the lives of those they rescued and it does take some getting used to but it is worth it to keep reading.
Also, this is a WWII novel so you can expect references to/accounts of concentration camps, suicide, beatings, degradation, starvation, etc. None of it goes into graphic detail but it is there and it is real. I appreciate that the author didn't shy away from these things but if you have trouble reading about them, this may not be the book for you.
If you enjoyed Slow March of Light by Heather Moore, you will most likely enjoy this one also. It is a deep and heavy read but offers a message of hope and goodness. Just make sure you have your tissues handy!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
June 28, 2023
Two sisters, Ida and Louise Cook. Opera Fans. Crazy about opera, saving every spare bit of pay for tickets. These English spinsterish ladies become known for their willingness to ignore the world (and impending war!) around them to attend each and every opera performing within their wallets' range - and that "rich odd ducks" status gives them a window. Though there is a war erupting around them, it is through that window desperate people and their last chance treasures are pulled by the clever and hopeful sisters. With their help and a little faith, their goal for each is that all will combine to help these refugees find a way, a place, and further protection in order to start a new life somewhere. Anywhere beyond the dictator's reach. Ida and Louise use their high-class, opera glass personas to provide ingenious and simple means, and all of it dangerous, life-risking work.
Marianne Monson's book is based on real heroines and their real efforts and sacrifices to save the persecuted people Hitler and his cronies condemned through lethal public policies. Ida and Louise Cook are those real heroines, along with all who assisted them, from family and friends, to opera community members who were aware of the Cooks and their quest to save just one more family, one more . . .I'm grateful for the introduction to them by this book.
This is the first I've read of this author, and will seek out other books she has written, and hope for more to come.
A Sincere Thank You to Marianne Monson, Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review. #TheOperaSisters #NetGalley
Marianne Monson's book is based on real heroines and their real efforts and sacrifices to save the persecuted people Hitler and his cronies condemned through lethal public policies. Ida and Louise Cook are those real heroines, along with all who assisted them, from family and friends, to opera community members who were aware of the Cooks and their quest to save just one more family, one more . . .I'm grateful for the introduction to them by this book.
This is the first I've read of this author, and will seek out other books she has written, and hope for more to come.
A Sincere Thank You to Marianne Monson, Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review. #TheOperaSisters #NetGalley
January 20, 2024
Based on the true story of the Cook sisters, who smuggled valuables out of 1930s Nazi Germany to help Jewish families start new lives in England. Ida and Louise Cook were two single women in their 30s, living at home with their parents, saving their earnings from their jobs to buy a gramophone. They loved music and became opera enthusiasts attending any performance they could.
Louise worked as a secretary for the civil service while Ida started writing romance novels under the pseudonym Mary Burchell (the real Ida Cook published 112 romance novels in her lifetime). They used the money from her writing to make frequent trips to Germany in the guise of being two sisters who just wanted to see opera performances. While in Germany, they would secretly meet with Jewish families and try to find British citizens who would vouch to take them in until they could get on their feet. The sisters would take the valuables of the Jewish families (jewelry and fur coats) and would wear them in plain site as they returned to England. They would hold their valuables in England until the refugees arrived. This would allow them to sell their belongings to help support themselves in their new lives.
The Opera Sisters is another historical fiction novel that sent me down a Google rabbit hole in search of information about these two amazing humans. Their courage allowed them to save 29 Jewish refugees. While I found the story of the Cook sisters quite interesting, I found the large number of characters distracting. I always enjoy learning about stories of heroism that I was not previously aware of, and would definitely recommend this for fans of WWII historical fiction. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Louise worked as a secretary for the civil service while Ida started writing romance novels under the pseudonym Mary Burchell (the real Ida Cook published 112 romance novels in her lifetime). They used the money from her writing to make frequent trips to Germany in the guise of being two sisters who just wanted to see opera performances. While in Germany, they would secretly meet with Jewish families and try to find British citizens who would vouch to take them in until they could get on their feet. The sisters would take the valuables of the Jewish families (jewelry and fur coats) and would wear them in plain site as they returned to England. They would hold their valuables in England until the refugees arrived. This would allow them to sell their belongings to help support themselves in their new lives.
The Opera Sisters is another historical fiction novel that sent me down a Google rabbit hole in search of information about these two amazing humans. Their courage allowed them to save 29 Jewish refugees. While I found the story of the Cook sisters quite interesting, I found the large number of characters distracting. I always enjoy learning about stories of heroism that I was not previously aware of, and would definitely recommend this for fans of WWII historical fiction. 3.5 stars rounded up.
September 9, 2022
I absolutely love historical fiction and when it is based on real people? Even better. I was so excited to read about these two sisters, Ida and Louise Cook, who bravely changed and saved people's lives during WWII.
It was fascinating to read about Ida and Louise's path that led them to helping so many people from Germany. The opera and a love for music started it all. A love for humankind and kind hearts led to the rest. Ida sacrificed so much and honestly, it was very touching. Stories like this remind me of the good people in the world.
The harder part for me was how the story was told. There were SO many people, it was sometimes hard to keep track of them all. Because of this, I had a harder time connecting emotionally. Of course I cared about what was happening and the people spoken of, but it was more in a general type of way and not an individual connection. The way the story jumped from the sister's story to other stories took some getting used to. I didn't really love the format.
I feel like I learned something and of course I was reminded of the atrocities of war and most specifically, the atrocities against the Jewish people. Heartbreaking. But so important to remember. What a great tribute this book is to these to these people.
Content: peril and wartime violence. Nothing in great detail.
It was fascinating to read about Ida and Louise's path that led them to helping so many people from Germany. The opera and a love for music started it all. A love for humankind and kind hearts led to the rest. Ida sacrificed so much and honestly, it was very touching. Stories like this remind me of the good people in the world.
The harder part for me was how the story was told. There were SO many people, it was sometimes hard to keep track of them all. Because of this, I had a harder time connecting emotionally. Of course I cared about what was happening and the people spoken of, but it was more in a general type of way and not an individual connection. The way the story jumped from the sister's story to other stories took some getting used to. I didn't really love the format.
I feel like I learned something and of course I was reminded of the atrocities of war and most specifically, the atrocities against the Jewish people. Heartbreaking. But so important to remember. What a great tribute this book is to these to these people.
Content: peril and wartime violence. Nothing in great detail.
September 6, 2022
I seem to be reading a lot of books lately that are set in the time of World War II. Almost all of them have been centered on the people who were being persecuted—the horrible things that they had to endure and the suffering they went through to survive—with some of them not living though it all.
The Opera Sisters tells the same story of the war but from a different perspective. This is the story of two sisters who came to the aid of those very same people who were being persecuted and were suffering. Based on true events, sisters Ida and Louise Cook were able to get a lot of people out of dangerous situations and to safety. Under the guise of the opera, they built up a network of friends and connections who helped them with their mission of saving people.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I learned so much about the world of opera but I was also able to see another side to a terrible time in our world. There really were a lot of good people helping so many in need. Like I said, this is a different spin to the usual WWII story so if you like historical fiction of that time period, you will definitely want to read this one. I highly recommend The Opera Sisters.
The Opera Sisters tells the same story of the war but from a different perspective. This is the story of two sisters who came to the aid of those very same people who were being persecuted and were suffering. Based on true events, sisters Ida and Louise Cook were able to get a lot of people out of dangerous situations and to safety. Under the guise of the opera, they built up a network of friends and connections who helped them with their mission of saving people.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I learned so much about the world of opera but I was also able to see another side to a terrible time in our world. There really were a lot of good people helping so many in need. Like I said, this is a different spin to the usual WWII story so if you like historical fiction of that time period, you will definitely want to read this one. I highly recommend The Opera Sisters.
May 25, 2023
I always wonder how brave I would be in different circumstances. On the cusp of World War II, sisters Ida and Louise Cook are living simple lives--working and saving their pennies to go to the opera, which they discover is their passion. But they find themselves doing much more than that by smuggling furs and jewels to help fund necessary escapes. Could I be that brave?
This book was interesting and inspiring. Sometimes reading like a historical fiction and sometimes like a history book, the many, many points-of-view (from both sisters, as well as from some of those benefiting from their sacrifices) was compelling, and while I was completely touched by these true events, I personally prefer a historical fiction approach.
May we all find ways to stand up, digging deep within ourselves to fight for truth and fairness, no matter the cost.
Content: war-type violence and peril, but not overly graphic
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This book was interesting and inspiring. Sometimes reading like a historical fiction and sometimes like a history book, the many, many points-of-view (from both sisters, as well as from some of those benefiting from their sacrifices) was compelling, and while I was completely touched by these true events, I personally prefer a historical fiction approach.
May we all find ways to stand up, digging deep within ourselves to fight for truth and fairness, no matter the cost.
Content: war-type violence and peril, but not overly graphic
*I received a complimentary copy through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
June 3, 2022
When I was in junior high school I went through a phase where I devoured romance novels, buying most of them at the thrift store down the street and at a used book store. Over time the clear winner for my favorite author was Mary Burchell (real name Ida Cook). Her plots are often unusual for genre romances, and even when they follow a standard romance storyline there is something that sets them apart. As an adult I learned that she and her sister helped Jewish people flee Germany before World War II by finding them sponsors in England and smuggling their valuables out of Germany. Mary Burchell’s payment for her books helped as well.
So when I heard about The Opera Sisters I wanted to read it. I’ve read a lot of historical fiction about real people in World War II and looked forward to a book about someone I already admired. Unfortunately, it was a huge disappointment. I read an advance reader copy, and it honestly reads like a draft rather than an about-to-be-published novel. Part of me still wonders if the wrong version was uploaded to Netgalley. I was expecting a historical novel that seamlessly blended real life events with fictional recreations of dialog and plot. What I got was a random compilation of facts from the 1930s, cobbled together with stories about the terrible things that were happening to Jews, brief glimpses into what the lives of Ida and Louise Cook might have been like, and multiple apologies from the author for altering when certain things actually happened in the form of footnotes at the end of various chapters. An editor should have told the author to work those weird random chapters into the narrative and cut anything that didn’t fit. An editor needed to pull all those parts into a coherent and powerful story. And those remarks about changes should have been saved for the author note.
The parts about the sisters weren't bad, but I kept getting yanked out of the story by the little asides about terrible things that weren't connected to the specific story being told. (What was that chapter about Pearl Harbor doing in this book?) It honestly almost felt like this book was being written for someone who had never heard of the Holocaust. It was a very strange narrative decision in my opinion.
I only finished this book because of my great admiration for Ida Cook as a person and for her persona Mary Burchell as a romance author. The story of the Cook sisters deserves to be told, but they deserve a much better book than this one.
I read an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
So when I heard about The Opera Sisters I wanted to read it. I’ve read a lot of historical fiction about real people in World War II and looked forward to a book about someone I already admired. Unfortunately, it was a huge disappointment. I read an advance reader copy, and it honestly reads like a draft rather than an about-to-be-published novel. Part of me still wonders if the wrong version was uploaded to Netgalley. I was expecting a historical novel that seamlessly blended real life events with fictional recreations of dialog and plot. What I got was a random compilation of facts from the 1930s, cobbled together with stories about the terrible things that were happening to Jews, brief glimpses into what the lives of Ida and Louise Cook might have been like, and multiple apologies from the author for altering when certain things actually happened in the form of footnotes at the end of various chapters. An editor should have told the author to work those weird random chapters into the narrative and cut anything that didn’t fit. An editor needed to pull all those parts into a coherent and powerful story. And those remarks about changes should have been saved for the author note.
The parts about the sisters weren't bad, but I kept getting yanked out of the story by the little asides about terrible things that weren't connected to the specific story being told. (What was that chapter about Pearl Harbor doing in this book?) It honestly almost felt like this book was being written for someone who had never heard of the Holocaust. It was a very strange narrative decision in my opinion.
I only finished this book because of my great admiration for Ida Cook as a person and for her persona Mary Burchell as a romance author. The story of the Cook sisters deserves to be told, but they deserve a much better book than this one.
I read an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
September 7, 2022
4.5/5 stars. I love opera, but I also love women's biographical, historical fiction, and this one is more the latter than the former. You'll find my full book review here. https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2022/09/0...
October 12, 2022
Wow.
The Opera Sisters packs a punch of history like no other book I've read. There is so much emotion, bravery, sadness, determination, danger, courage and compassion in the pages of this novel. It's almost hard to put into words really. Ida and Louise may seem like ordinary women to some, but let me tell you how extraordinary they were. They put others before themselves. They fought battles no one should have to. They risked everything to make a difference in the world. How many of us can say that? Although I am sure that Monson took some artistic liberties for the sake of the storyline, I imagine there are not many if we started diving into the history of the Cook sisters. Though some things were hard to read (more gut wrenching really), overall this story provides so much hope and courage that it overrides it.
If you are looking for a powerful story that has a ton of history in it, then I recommend reading this story. Be prepared to read it slowly though, you don't want to miss anything! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Opera Sisters packs a punch of history like no other book I've read. There is so much emotion, bravery, sadness, determination, danger, courage and compassion in the pages of this novel. It's almost hard to put into words really. Ida and Louise may seem like ordinary women to some, but let me tell you how extraordinary they were. They put others before themselves. They fought battles no one should have to. They risked everything to make a difference in the world. How many of us can say that? Although I am sure that Monson took some artistic liberties for the sake of the storyline, I imagine there are not many if we started diving into the history of the Cook sisters. Though some things were hard to read (more gut wrenching really), overall this story provides so much hope and courage that it overrides it.
If you are looking for a powerful story that has a ton of history in it, then I recommend reading this story. Be prepared to read it slowly though, you don't want to miss anything! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 20, 2022
Ida and Louise Cook were two courageous sisters who showed their bravery in a time when most of us would have been terrified to go against authority. Leading up to the Second World War, they helped as many Jewish people as they could, not only escape Germany, but secure homes for them to live in in the safety of other countries. I had no idea when I requested this book that it was based on a true story, and that made me love this story even more.
The author included tons of historical articles and information in this book, which helped the reader understand what was happening at that time, bit could sometimes feel a bit long. There were parts of this book I feel could have been condensed, but overall it was a beautiful and inspiring read.
Thank you to NetGallery and Shadow Mountain Publishing for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest feedback.
The author included tons of historical articles and information in this book, which helped the reader understand what was happening at that time, bit could sometimes feel a bit long. There were parts of this book I feel could have been condensed, but overall it was a beautiful and inspiring read.
Thank you to NetGallery and Shadow Mountain Publishing for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest feedback.
December 29, 2022
This book was so inspiring. I hope that I would have been as brave and selfless as these two sisters! The layout of the book is interesting, and at times disjointed, but I appreciated the footnotes and historical references. The author really tried to stay true to the actual events.
August 27, 2022
World War II books for me are in a genre all their own. I always go into them with hesitancy because the events are so incredibly heartbreaking. What drew me to The Opera Sisters by Marianne Monson was the idea of these two sisters putting aside their fears, safety and using ingenuity through uncommon avenues to help so many others.
I love that this was based on a true story and that so many of the historical aspects were well documented throughout the text. It did take me until about 20% to really get a feel for the storyline as the beginning jumps around quite a bit setting up for the later events. After reading this book in it's entirety I really appreciated the set up-so go into this book with that in mind! I think it will help with the experience of this book.
This author was able to condense the entire timeline of WWII throughout the book that made it history rich. There are so many details included that this book felt personal and intimate. Have your tissues handy and know this book will hit you at such a deep level.
If you have read and enjoyed books like A Slow March of Light by Heather B Moore or A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice by Rebecca Connolly I think you would really enjoy this one. Content-wise this one is a bit heavier. There is talk of murders, persecution and suicides in this book. There was nothing overly graphic-just that they were happening all across Europe and honestly, if you've read a history book, nothing should come as a surprise but it will impact you emotionally and want to note it.
If you're in the mood for a life changing book, I recommend this one!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
I love that this was based on a true story and that so many of the historical aspects were well documented throughout the text. It did take me until about 20% to really get a feel for the storyline as the beginning jumps around quite a bit setting up for the later events. After reading this book in it's entirety I really appreciated the set up-so go into this book with that in mind! I think it will help with the experience of this book.
This author was able to condense the entire timeline of WWII throughout the book that made it history rich. There are so many details included that this book felt personal and intimate. Have your tissues handy and know this book will hit you at such a deep level.
If you have read and enjoyed books like A Slow March of Light by Heather B Moore or A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice by Rebecca Connolly I think you would really enjoy this one. Content-wise this one is a bit heavier. There is talk of murders, persecution and suicides in this book. There was nothing overly graphic-just that they were happening all across Europe and honestly, if you've read a history book, nothing should come as a surprise but it will impact you emotionally and want to note it.
If you're in the mood for a life changing book, I recommend this one!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
March 10, 2023
“Based on a true story… On the eve of World War II, two sisters will use their love of opera in a daring plan to save the lives of Jewish refugees.”
This book had me staying up late to read and I woke up still thinking about it in the morning. Ida and Louise Cook, two working class British sisters in their 30’s, travel to Germany and Austria several times to see their beloved operas. They become well known to other opera fans and several performers. Louise works as a civil servant employee and Ida begins writing articles, serial magazine stories and then novels, amazed at how much she can earn. When Hitler starts restricting and then deporting Jewish people, the sisters begin to smuggle furs and jewels for those desperate to flee. I didn’t know that Jewish refugees wishing to enter England had to have guaranteed sponsors or verified employment before they were allowed entry. The sisters worked tirelessly to secure Visas and sponsors, risking dangerous travel as war drew near. Ida and Louise were truly inspiring. They saved 29 families at least, but with so many requests for help, Ida struggled with not being able to do more. This book spans pre-WWII to VE Day and the afterward goes on to summarize the sisters’ lives and recognition. This is an excellent story that I recommend to fans of historical and WWII fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers (Shadow Mountain Publishing). A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
This book had me staying up late to read and I woke up still thinking about it in the morning. Ida and Louise Cook, two working class British sisters in their 30’s, travel to Germany and Austria several times to see their beloved operas. They become well known to other opera fans and several performers. Louise works as a civil servant employee and Ida begins writing articles, serial magazine stories and then novels, amazed at how much she can earn. When Hitler starts restricting and then deporting Jewish people, the sisters begin to smuggle furs and jewels for those desperate to flee. I didn’t know that Jewish refugees wishing to enter England had to have guaranteed sponsors or verified employment before they were allowed entry. The sisters worked tirelessly to secure Visas and sponsors, risking dangerous travel as war drew near. Ida and Louise were truly inspiring. They saved 29 families at least, but with so many requests for help, Ida struggled with not being able to do more. This book spans pre-WWII to VE Day and the afterward goes on to summarize the sisters’ lives and recognition. This is an excellent story that I recommend to fans of historical and WWII fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers (Shadow Mountain Publishing). A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
September 13, 2022
This is such an incredible story! When you contemplate this novel is based on the lives of two real-life sisters from London, you truly understand what brave and amazing women the Cook sisters were. On the Eve of World War II, they used their love of going to the opera to save the lives of Jewish Refugees. To say that they were courageous is an understatement. They were stealthy right under the noses of Hitler's SS Soldiers as they brought back Jewish furs and jewelry to the safety of Britain.
I've read many books about WWII. This particular book hit me in a way many have not before. On one hand, I couldn't put the book down, and on the other hand, I had to put the book down to breathe a little. Not only do we get the story of the Cook sisters and the Jewish Refugees they tried and did help, but the author has bits and pieces that speak of the atrocities that were happening before the war had even started. Yes, I was in tears many times as my heart couldn't take the pure evil things that were done to innocent people of many cultures and many countries.
This is a definite must-read for adult fans of WWII "true story" novels. Just be prepared for a very emotional ride.
I've read many books about WWII. This particular book hit me in a way many have not before. On one hand, I couldn't put the book down, and on the other hand, I had to put the book down to breathe a little. Not only do we get the story of the Cook sisters and the Jewish Refugees they tried and did help, but the author has bits and pieces that speak of the atrocities that were happening before the war had even started. Yes, I was in tears many times as my heart couldn't take the pure evil things that were done to innocent people of many cultures and many countries.
This is a definite must-read for adult fans of WWII "true story" novels. Just be prepared for a very emotional ride.
November 1, 2022
4.6 Based on a true story.
Groupie, gratitude, Woolworth’s paste…
“ The music will distract. It will be a tool for healing.”
Louise and Ida Cook, two unassuming British sisters lead a simple, sensible life. Louise is a secretary and Ida a typist, wannabe romance writer. The sisters became ardent opera fans after pinching pennies to buy a gramophone and some opera records. After Ida writes an impulsive fan letter to an opera singer appearing in London, the sisters meet many performers and other opera buffs. Some they meet just standing in ticket lines! They skimp to save money to attend these various concerts in England and on the continent.
In Germany, the sisters are approached by opera community members for possible help. They begin by wearing their valuable jewelry and furs (with their own homemade clothes) back to England as future payments and guarantees. They advance to aiding in obtaining visas, work permits, exit papers, boat tickets, and even supplying temporary living quarters in their flat.
This book tells the story of two unlikely heroes. The two relied on being underestimated and avoiding attracting attention. Ida’s memoir was so humble that she mainly dwelled on the subject of opera.
* Some happenings in this book were included in other WWII books I recently read. This did NOT distract from the book. Ex: The 20,000 person rally at Madison Sq Garden in 1939.
* I found much info online about the sisters. It was interesting to learn how they became friends with so many famous opera stars! Hint - Standing in line with a box camera.
* I have only recently learned about these sisters (from other WWII books.) I would like to read Ida’s memoir Safe Passages.
* Hint— Ida Cook, using a pen name , published 112 books.
* The shared stories of the various people seeking help were heartbreaking.
* An emotional read
* I liked the character chart at the beginning. I like to refer to two pages to see names and descriptions.
Groupie, gratitude, Woolworth’s paste…
“ The music will distract. It will be a tool for healing.”
Louise and Ida Cook, two unassuming British sisters lead a simple, sensible life. Louise is a secretary and Ida a typist, wannabe romance writer. The sisters became ardent opera fans after pinching pennies to buy a gramophone and some opera records. After Ida writes an impulsive fan letter to an opera singer appearing in London, the sisters meet many performers and other opera buffs. Some they meet just standing in ticket lines! They skimp to save money to attend these various concerts in England and on the continent.
In Germany, the sisters are approached by opera community members for possible help. They begin by wearing their valuable jewelry and furs (with their own homemade clothes) back to England as future payments and guarantees. They advance to aiding in obtaining visas, work permits, exit papers, boat tickets, and even supplying temporary living quarters in their flat.
This book tells the story of two unlikely heroes. The two relied on being underestimated and avoiding attracting attention. Ida’s memoir was so humble that she mainly dwelled on the subject of opera.
* Some happenings in this book were included in other WWII books I recently read. This did NOT distract from the book. Ex: The 20,000 person rally at Madison Sq Garden in 1939.
* I found much info online about the sisters. It was interesting to learn how they became friends with so many famous opera stars! Hint - Standing in line with a box camera.
* I have only recently learned about these sisters (from other WWII books.) I would like to read Ida’s memoir Safe Passages.
* Hint— Ida Cook, using a pen name , published 112 books.
* The shared stories of the various people seeking help were heartbreaking.
* An emotional read
* I liked the character chart at the beginning. I like to refer to two pages to see names and descriptions.
July 6, 2022
#TheOperaSisters #NetGalley
The Opera Sisters by Marianne Monson, is based on the true story, of two British sisters, Ida and Louise Cook. There was a phrase that kept going through my mind, while I was reading, "I'm only one person, how can I ever make a difference?"
Ida and Louise, two ordinary, opera loving sisters, didn't waste time, they went out of their way to help refugees. Ida a romance author donated her time, effort and money to the cause of helping Jews, to escape war torn Germany, even before the war started. Louise, a secretary, also, worked alongside Ida, to free families and individuals. The two sibling, made sure to save, not only Jews, but some of their possessions as well, from furs, to jewelry, they would wear it proudly across the border and put it in a secure place, so it could be returned later. I've read many books about World War II and about concentration camps. Bless these two sisters, for their efforts in helping, without any thought for their own safety.
The Opera Sisters by Marianne Monson, is based on the true story, of two British sisters, Ida and Louise Cook. There was a phrase that kept going through my mind, while I was reading, "I'm only one person, how can I ever make a difference?"
Ida and Louise, two ordinary, opera loving sisters, didn't waste time, they went out of their way to help refugees. Ida a romance author donated her time, effort and money to the cause of helping Jews, to escape war torn Germany, even before the war started. Louise, a secretary, also, worked alongside Ida, to free families and individuals. The two sibling, made sure to save, not only Jews, but some of their possessions as well, from furs, to jewelry, they would wear it proudly across the border and put it in a secure place, so it could be returned later. I've read many books about World War II and about concentration camps. Bless these two sisters, for their efforts in helping, without any thought for their own safety.
August 16, 2022
Sisters Louise and Ida Cook are infatuated with Opera. This obsession influences career choices and opens up their circle of influence and as a result, they are asked to partake in a dangerous mission by new and desperate friends.
The content and research were intriguing, but the presentation fell flat for me. I’m not sure what the aim was in presenting the narrative in different formats, but it ruined the flow for me. While I am in awe of the risk these two ordinary women took, I failed to connect to them because the story didn’t come alive for me. I am disappointed that a fresh look at WW2 fiction wasn’t as enjoyable for me as I was hoping it would be. Despite my disappointment, I appreciated the author’s exploration of moral courage in the face of risk and of ordinary people standing up and choosing to help another. Just because I didn’t love the author’s choice of presentation, doesn’t mean that you won’t like it.
I was gifted this advance copy by Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The content and research were intriguing, but the presentation fell flat for me. I’m not sure what the aim was in presenting the narrative in different formats, but it ruined the flow for me. While I am in awe of the risk these two ordinary women took, I failed to connect to them because the story didn’t come alive for me. I am disappointed that a fresh look at WW2 fiction wasn’t as enjoyable for me as I was hoping it would be. Despite my disappointment, I appreciated the author’s exploration of moral courage in the face of risk and of ordinary people standing up and choosing to help another. Just because I didn’t love the author’s choice of presentation, doesn’t mean that you won’t like it.
I was gifted this advance copy by Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 24, 2024
I almost quit reading this book after the 1st few pages. I know almost nothing about opera and references to it was overwhelming. However, I stuck with it knowing there was so much more to the story. It is in fact a story of a remarkable woman and her sister that risk their own freedom to help WW2 refugees escape to England. There are many unsung heroes and it was rewarding to hear about these two. As with so many historical fiction books I read I found myself researching individuals mentioned. The questions for discussion at the back of the book are thought provoking and well worth the time. My only negative comment would be the story flows from refugee to refugee and I sometimes forgot who they were.
October 20, 2022
Compelling docu-drama based on the lives of sisters Ida and Louise Cook, who bravely and tenaciously facilitated the rescue of multiple Jews from Hitler’s clutches in the late 1930s and early 40s. The riveting narrative is gleaned from letters, memoirs, reporting and other sources (referenced in detailed footnotes). Remarkably, while traveling to Europe for opera performances in places such as Salzburg, Vienna and Berlin, they became friends with conductor Clemence Krauss and wife Romanian soprano Viorica Ursuleac and other luminaries of the opera scene. Trips to various performances gave them the opportunity to meet and help those desperate to get away.
October 16, 2022
I enjoyed this true story of sisters Louise and Ida Cook. I stumbled on this book by accident and I’m really glad I did. These 2 sisters from England, who had a passion for opera, found themselves smuggling jewelry out of Germany for Jewish families right before the start of WWII. Soon they were doing all they could to get the Jewish families out and find them a safe place to live. The takeaway for me is that ordinary people can do extraordinary things that can make a big difference in the lives of others.
Want to read
January 2, 2023The premise is so interesting but I just wasn’t able to get into it. I plan to come back to it eventually!
November 13, 2025
I'm a sucker for a good historical fiction book. Nothing super special but another cute wwII story with a hint of opera and love for music.
December 1, 2022
This book took me quite a while to get into, but I’m glad I stuck with it! It is both heartbreaking and heartwarming! I love finding WWII stories of people that fought against the evil and made something beautiful for others. The Cook sisters were true heroes!
June 24, 2022
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This historical novel is based on the true story of the Cook sisters, opera lovers who traveled from London to Nazi Germany and smuggled out jewels and furs for those hoping to find a way to England. Two ordinary, unassuming working-class women, Ida and Louise save their money to buy opera tickets. Serendipitously the sisters are introduced to fellow opera lovers, performers and conductors. Through these relationships, the sisters are asked to smuggle valuables out of Germany for those seeking refuge in England, or anywhere but Germany. Quite boldly, the sisters wear the goods by hiding them in plain sight, and keeping them safe until they are reunited with their owners. After travel to continental Europe is halted, the sisters continue to help refugees by obtaining sponsorships and employment. By the end of the war, the sisters were able to help 29 Jewish families escape from Nazi Germany.
My rating is only 3 stars because I had such mixed feelings about the writing. My rating is in no way related to the brave and caring sisters. While I realize it was an historical novel, I felt that some things were changed or embellished without any logical reason. For instance, the speech given by Winston Churchill on Christmas Eve of 1941 is moved to 1940. There is a chapter of the sisters reuniting with one of their dear friends after the war, however, it was a story of someone else, who the author indicates isn’t mentioned in the book. There is a story of Theo, a Polish teen-ager the sisters helped, but we learn in the footnotes this is the story of another Theo, who was not helped by the sisters. However, it does include a lot of historical facts, appears to be well-researched and I did learn some new things. If you care to chill yourself to the bone, watch the short film A Night at the Garden, https://anightatthegarden.com.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
This historical novel is based on the true story of the Cook sisters, opera lovers who traveled from London to Nazi Germany and smuggled out jewels and furs for those hoping to find a way to England. Two ordinary, unassuming working-class women, Ida and Louise save their money to buy opera tickets. Serendipitously the sisters are introduced to fellow opera lovers, performers and conductors. Through these relationships, the sisters are asked to smuggle valuables out of Germany for those seeking refuge in England, or anywhere but Germany. Quite boldly, the sisters wear the goods by hiding them in plain sight, and keeping them safe until they are reunited with their owners. After travel to continental Europe is halted, the sisters continue to help refugees by obtaining sponsorships and employment. By the end of the war, the sisters were able to help 29 Jewish families escape from Nazi Germany.
My rating is only 3 stars because I had such mixed feelings about the writing. My rating is in no way related to the brave and caring sisters. While I realize it was an historical novel, I felt that some things were changed or embellished without any logical reason. For instance, the speech given by Winston Churchill on Christmas Eve of 1941 is moved to 1940. There is a chapter of the sisters reuniting with one of their dear friends after the war, however, it was a story of someone else, who the author indicates isn’t mentioned in the book. There is a story of Theo, a Polish teen-ager the sisters helped, but we learn in the footnotes this is the story of another Theo, who was not helped by the sisters. However, it does include a lot of historical facts, appears to be well-researched and I did learn some new things. If you care to chill yourself to the bone, watch the short film A Night at the Garden, https://anightatthegarden.com.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
November 13, 2023
“They’ve banished all Jewish professors, directors, and composers to prevent the ‘bastardisation of the nation.’ They’ve removed all Hebrew and Old Testament references from Handel’s Messiah. They’ve re-written Mozart’s Requiem.” Ida and Louise sat in stunned silence.”
“the frothy show seemed like one more charade belying the decay, like a gaudy carnival tune turned to a manic pitch to hide the grinding of blackened gears.”
“For the first time, she felt a branching of reality and sensed that beneath the grandeur of this mansion, beneath the tea and music and elegant furnishings, simmered a rising wave of dread she could not comprehend. To consider leaving this behind—they must be facing impossible circumstances.”
I could hardly put this book down once Ida and Louise arrived in Frankfurt for the first time. I highlighted passages in every chapter. The true story of these two sisters who worked so hard to help the many Jewish families begging for assistance is inspiring, sad and powerful.
I learned so much about Britain’s refugee process. I was stunned by the fact that so many Jews were robbed of their homes, belongings, jobs and freedom well in advance of Hitler’s declaration of war. I did not know some Jewish families turned on the coal gas in their homes to commit suicide rather than face further horrors and degradation from the Nazis.
It’s mind boggling to know this went on for so long before people outside of Germany even believed it was happening, let alone try to help. By the time Hitler’s evil was exposed, war had started and each attempt to help refugees became much more dangerous.
I empathized with Ida’s heartbreak when she couldn’t “help them all”. What a horrible and heavy burden to carry. The sisters received many letters every day from Jewish families who shared their stories and asked for “any help at all”.
The author included a timeline of WW2, explaining events of the war as the story progressed, which I appreciated. The Opera Sisters is well researched and based on real accounts and letters from that time. There is more information at the end. Well done.
Complimentary reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
*Note 3/12/23: I tried to post this review on Amazon and received this response.
👉🏻Thank you for submitting a customer review on Amazon. After carefully reviewing your submission, your review could not be posted to the website. It appears your content did not comply with our guidelines.
While we appreciate your time and comments, reviews must adhere to the following guidelines
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The Opera Sisters 5-*
from TJO on March 12, 2023
“THEY’VE RE-WRITTEN MOZART’S REQUIEM.”
“They’ve banished all Jewish professors, directors, and composers to prevent the ‘bastardisation of the nation.’ They’ve removed all Hebrew and Old Testament references from Handel’s Messiah. They’ve re-written Mozart’s Requiem.” Ida and Louise sat in stunned...
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
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Your review should focus on specific features of the product and your experience with it. Feedback on the seller or your shipment experience should be provided at https://www.amazon.com/hz/feedback.
We do not allow profane or obscene content. This applies to adult products too.
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“the frothy show seemed like one more charade belying the decay, like a gaudy carnival tune turned to a manic pitch to hide the grinding of blackened gears.”
“For the first time, she felt a branching of reality and sensed that beneath the grandeur of this mansion, beneath the tea and music and elegant furnishings, simmered a rising wave of dread she could not comprehend. To consider leaving this behind—they must be facing impossible circumstances.”
I could hardly put this book down once Ida and Louise arrived in Frankfurt for the first time. I highlighted passages in every chapter. The true story of these two sisters who worked so hard to help the many Jewish families begging for assistance is inspiring, sad and powerful.
I learned so much about Britain’s refugee process. I was stunned by the fact that so many Jews were robbed of their homes, belongings, jobs and freedom well in advance of Hitler’s declaration of war. I did not know some Jewish families turned on the coal gas in their homes to commit suicide rather than face further horrors and degradation from the Nazis.
It’s mind boggling to know this went on for so long before people outside of Germany even believed it was happening, let alone try to help. By the time Hitler’s evil was exposed, war had started and each attempt to help refugees became much more dangerous.
I empathized with Ida’s heartbreak when she couldn’t “help them all”. What a horrible and heavy burden to carry. The sisters received many letters every day from Jewish families who shared their stories and asked for “any help at all”.
The author included a timeline of WW2, explaining events of the war as the story progressed, which I appreciated. The Opera Sisters is well researched and based on real accounts and letters from that time. There is more information at the end. Well done.
Complimentary reader copy courtesy of the publishers at NetGalley for review.
*Note 3/12/23: I tried to post this review on Amazon and received this response.
👉🏻Thank you for submitting a customer review on Amazon. After carefully reviewing your submission, your review could not be posted to the website. It appears your content did not comply with our guidelines.
While we appreciate your time and comments, reviews must adhere to the following guidelines
Amazon Community Guidelines
The Opera Sisters 5-*
from TJO on March 12, 2023
“THEY’VE RE-WRITTEN MOZART’S REQUIEM.”
“They’ve banished all Jewish professors, directors, and composers to prevent the ‘bastardisation of the nation.’ They’ve removed all Hebrew and Old Testament references from Handel’s Messiah. They’ve re-written Mozart’s Requiem.” Ida and Louise sat in stunned...
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
A few common issues to keep in mind:
Your review should focus on specific features of the product and your experience with it. Feedback on the seller or your shipment experience should be provided at https://www.amazon.com/hz/feedback.
We do not allow profane or obscene content. This applies to adult products too.
Advertisements, promotional material or repeated posts that make the same point excessively are considered spam.
Please do not include URLs external to Amazon or personally identifiable content in your review.
Any attempt to manipulate Community content or features, including contributing false, misleading, or inauthentic content, is strictly prohibited.
November 9, 2022
Well written and well researched! This is a great intro/big picture of the whole of WWII. I think it’s appropriate for my 11 year old to read.
I looked at WWII from different perspectives than I have before. Particularly from the loss of a community that turned into persecution in Germany. I had never thought about the daily humiliations endured or initially endured by Jewish people in Germany.
This brought most aspects of the war into a great whole that was very compelling.
The friendship of the sisters kept it not as heavy and depressing as WWII can be sometimes.
I looked at WWII from different perspectives than I have before. Particularly from the loss of a community that turned into persecution in Germany. I had never thought about the daily humiliations endured or initially endured by Jewish people in Germany.
This brought most aspects of the war into a great whole that was very compelling.
The friendship of the sisters kept it not as heavy and depressing as WWII can be sometimes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews