What do you think?
Rate this book
Bathed In Moonlight
A wounded soldier at her doorstep. A secret beneath the floorboards.
Germany, World War Two. Jimmy O'Brien and Greta Müller must overcome a mountain of obstacles forcing them apart, while helping a young boy reunite with his mother.
With the war now threatening her safety, can Greta save the handsome GI, or will her act of charity lead to the discovery of a hidden past and the destruction of a young boy’s world?
Stacia Kaywood's debut novel, 'Bathed In Moonlight', explores the chaos at the end of a hard-fought war, when those who survived struggle to rebuild the lives they once had, redefining who they now are while putting to rest the skeletons in their closets.
Germany, World War Two. Jimmy O'Brien and Greta Müller must overcome a mountain of obstacles forcing them apart, while helping a young boy reunite with his mother.
With the war now threatening her safety, can Greta save the handsome GI, or will her act of charity lead to the discovery of a hidden past and the destruction of a young boy’s world?
Stacia Kaywood's debut novel, 'Bathed In Moonlight', explores the chaos at the end of a hard-fought war, when those who survived struggle to rebuild the lives they once had, redefining who they now are while putting to rest the skeletons in their closets.
- GenresRomanceHistorical
314 pages, Paperback
Published November 10, 2022
15 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 4, 2023
A beautiful love story told through the eyes of two people trying to figure out life after war. A hard to put down, well written novel.
September 13, 2023
An unlikely romance with hope, passion, and a solid storyline
If you’re a romance junkie, you’ll love this book! It is not my usual genre, but I’m really glad I read it. The writing is so good, and the historical setting adds tension and unpredictability. Greta is portrayed as a very strong young woman who has been put through one too many precarious situations leading up to, and through, the terror of WWII. As a German, her fortuitous meeting with an American soldier sets the story on its path and doesn’t let up…and there’s so much more! I found this book interesting, with great character development and heart. Get yourself a copy…you’ll enjoy it!
If you’re a romance junkie, you’ll love this book! It is not my usual genre, but I’m really glad I read it. The writing is so good, and the historical setting adds tension and unpredictability. Greta is portrayed as a very strong young woman who has been put through one too many precarious situations leading up to, and through, the terror of WWII. As a German, her fortuitous meeting with an American soldier sets the story on its path and doesn’t let up…and there’s so much more! I found this book interesting, with great character development and heart. Get yourself a copy…you’ll enjoy it!
October 15, 2024
A wounded soldier at her doorstep. A secret beneath the floorboards....
As though the luscious cover hadn't drawn me to this novel (I am a cover lover), then these first words of the blurb did me in.
One of my literary passions is the World War II era, so I was intrigued by this novel. The era. But "Bathed in Moonlight" was an interesting and touching variation on the usual era novels in that it began in wartime Germany. A point of view I haven't often read.
Like the blurb says, the main characters are U.S. Soldier, Jimmy O'Brien and Greta Müller who has made a miraculous escape from a Nazi concentration camp with a young charge, Ezra.
I don't discuss plots. They're for the reader to learn.
But I can say that this novel, while being an honest and sometimes brutal, reminder of atrocities of World War II, it's tempered with the beautiful things that made survivors of those who did manage to make it through this tragic but strong period of world history.
Romance. Lots of that, and if you know me, you know I love that.
Friendship: Here I can mention one of my FAVORITE, FAVORITE supporting characters...Tony. The driver and good buddy of Jimmy's. The enduring friendhips between Greta and the friends who struggled through the same horrors that she did.
Villains. Who are, I suspect, more real for this traumatic time than we'd like to believe. But believable they are. But, then, villans and the overcoming of them (not a spoiler!) are what life and what good novels are all about.
Splendid writing. Kaywood's writing was musical, sensual, gritty. I learned that this is her debut novel and what a debut it is!
If you love novels about the era and just love the history of WWII as much as I do, then I recommend this book!
As though the luscious cover hadn't drawn me to this novel (I am a cover lover), then these first words of the blurb did me in.
One of my literary passions is the World War II era, so I was intrigued by this novel. The era. But "Bathed in Moonlight" was an interesting and touching variation on the usual era novels in that it began in wartime Germany. A point of view I haven't often read.
Like the blurb says, the main characters are U.S. Soldier, Jimmy O'Brien and Greta Müller who has made a miraculous escape from a Nazi concentration camp with a young charge, Ezra.
I don't discuss plots. They're for the reader to learn.
But I can say that this novel, while being an honest and sometimes brutal, reminder of atrocities of World War II, it's tempered with the beautiful things that made survivors of those who did manage to make it through this tragic but strong period of world history.
Romance. Lots of that, and if you know me, you know I love that.
Friendship: Here I can mention one of my FAVORITE, FAVORITE supporting characters...Tony. The driver and good buddy of Jimmy's. The enduring friendhips between Greta and the friends who struggled through the same horrors that she did.
Villains. Who are, I suspect, more real for this traumatic time than we'd like to believe. But believable they are. But, then, villans and the overcoming of them (not a spoiler!) are what life and what good novels are all about.
Splendid writing. Kaywood's writing was musical, sensual, gritty. I learned that this is her debut novel and what a debut it is!
If you love novels about the era and just love the history of WWII as much as I do, then I recommend this book!
January 30, 2023
Trying to Heal After the War
Bathed in Moonlight, by Stacia Kaywood, pulled me in from the first paragraph. Kaywood writes descriptive words and phrases that wrapped around me and before I knew it, I could not put this book down.
The story takes place just as WWII is ending in Europe. We learn of the horrors perpetrated upon the people by the Nazis. We learned how the main character, Greta Muller, escapes a death camp with a boy at that time, no bigger than a toddler, and with numbers tattooed on her arm. Then, before the truce is signed, a wounded and dying American soldier stumbles to the cabin where Greta hides out with the boy. Would she dare try to nurse this American back to life when renegade German soldiers still pillaged and plundered villages? Greta is not a Nazi sympathizer, she would be shot on site for harboring an American.
The plot of this story deals with war and loss of family, then finding reason to live on and look for loved one. It is also a tender love story, but I will say, there are love stories and there are steamy love stories, and this is one of the latter. Too, the plot is intricate and in places shocking, but that seems to be the way events could have happened. This story reads like real life, like the author has an inside scoop of what it was like to live out this scenario.
Bathed in Moonlight, by Stacia Kaywood, pulled me in from the first paragraph. Kaywood writes descriptive words and phrases that wrapped around me and before I knew it, I could not put this book down.
The story takes place just as WWII is ending in Europe. We learn of the horrors perpetrated upon the people by the Nazis. We learned how the main character, Greta Muller, escapes a death camp with a boy at that time, no bigger than a toddler, and with numbers tattooed on her arm. Then, before the truce is signed, a wounded and dying American soldier stumbles to the cabin where Greta hides out with the boy. Would she dare try to nurse this American back to life when renegade German soldiers still pillaged and plundered villages? Greta is not a Nazi sympathizer, she would be shot on site for harboring an American.
The plot of this story deals with war and loss of family, then finding reason to live on and look for loved one. It is also a tender love story, but I will say, there are love stories and there are steamy love stories, and this is one of the latter. Too, the plot is intricate and in places shocking, but that seems to be the way events could have happened. This story reads like real life, like the author has an inside scoop of what it was like to live out this scenario.
December 13, 2023
Loved!! This book captivates from the first page, weaving a compelling tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II Germany. Stacia Kaywood's debut novel is an exploration of love, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The story of Jimmy O'Brien and Greta Müller is both heartrending and uplifting. Their journey, laden with obstacles that threaten to tear them apart, is a testament to the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war.
What truly sets this book apart is its intricate narrative that beautifully intertwines the personal stories of the characters with the broader canvas of a world ravaged by war. The hidden secrets, the sizzling passion, the gripping suspense, and the touching moments of humanity make this a truly captivating read.
'Bathed In Moonlight' is not just a story; it's an emotional journey that lingers long after the final chapter. It's an absolute must-read for fans of historical fiction and compelling wartime dramas. Stacia Kaywood's debut is a triumph, showcasing her talent as a storyteller who knows how to craft a narrative that resonates deeply with readers.
The story of Jimmy O'Brien and Greta Müller is both heartrending and uplifting. Their journey, laden with obstacles that threaten to tear them apart, is a testament to the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war.
What truly sets this book apart is its intricate narrative that beautifully intertwines the personal stories of the characters with the broader canvas of a world ravaged by war. The hidden secrets, the sizzling passion, the gripping suspense, and the touching moments of humanity make this a truly captivating read.
'Bathed In Moonlight' is not just a story; it's an emotional journey that lingers long after the final chapter. It's an absolute must-read for fans of historical fiction and compelling wartime dramas. Stacia Kaywood's debut is a triumph, showcasing her talent as a storyteller who knows how to craft a narrative that resonates deeply with readers.
July 18, 2023
This is so much more than a romance novel. Bathed in Moonlight is an epic tale, sweeping in scope, yet masterful in telling the intertwined stories of its small cast of characters. I will give away no plot details here because this is a story full of surprises, twists of fate (a recurring theme), and incomprehensible tragedies. It's the kind of book that stays with you, and I can give no higher literary compliment than this.
Author Stacia Kaywood knows how to spin a story and to place the reader in immediate situations and historical settings. There is no exposition. Kaywood uses strategic flashback scenes to transport the reader, instead of merely having characters tell each other what had happened in their haunted past. She is an expert historian, and every moment of the book sparkles with authenticity and accuracy.
This is a brilliant debut novel, and I look forward to what Kaywood writes next. In the meantime, I'm waiting for some savvy producer to option this story and turn it into the hit motion picture it certainly would be.
Author Stacia Kaywood knows how to spin a story and to place the reader in immediate situations and historical settings. There is no exposition. Kaywood uses strategic flashback scenes to transport the reader, instead of merely having characters tell each other what had happened in their haunted past. She is an expert historian, and every moment of the book sparkles with authenticity and accuracy.
This is a brilliant debut novel, and I look forward to what Kaywood writes next. In the meantime, I'm waiting for some savvy producer to option this story and turn it into the hit motion picture it certainly would be.
March 23, 2024
There is nothing better than when a story flows like water. No pretense, no malaise, no wasted words, no unnecessary characters or situations. Kaywood captures this well as she takes readers on a journey during the tumultuous end of World War II in the European Theatre.
What I enjoyed most about Greta and Jimmy’s tale are the wonderful historical touches Kaywood brings into the narrative. Not only does she share the fall of Germany at war’s end, but the war is a strong character in its own right in lieu of being a simple backdrop. Greater still, the war that tore so many lives apart is the same war that brings Greta and Jimmy together. Both characters represent that “silver lining” in the darkest of days and one must ponder if they ever would have found each other without such a conflict surrounding them.
Kaywood wastes no time diving into the story. Most importantly, every character or trial Greta and Jimmy face bring us deeper into their individual personalities as they move forward, “Bathed in Moonlight,” they create for each other.
What I enjoyed most about Greta and Jimmy’s tale are the wonderful historical touches Kaywood brings into the narrative. Not only does she share the fall of Germany at war’s end, but the war is a strong character in its own right in lieu of being a simple backdrop. Greater still, the war that tore so many lives apart is the same war that brings Greta and Jimmy together. Both characters represent that “silver lining” in the darkest of days and one must ponder if they ever would have found each other without such a conflict surrounding them.
Kaywood wastes no time diving into the story. Most importantly, every character or trial Greta and Jimmy face bring us deeper into their individual personalities as they move forward, “Bathed in Moonlight,” they create for each other.
June 13, 2023
This is such a lovely read: a tender, moving - and yet at times quite steamy! - love story that builds beautifully; it’s also a well-crafted story of (the aftermath of) war, friendships, family and trauma; and the difficult transition to more settled times and futures, as the characters attempt to come to terms with issues from their personal pasts, on top of dealing with the post-war challenges they find themselves in. Stacia Kaywood does a great job of injecting the plot with suspense, drama and romance. The story also explores the quandaries of self-reinvention and identity after tragedy. But despite the challenges the characters face, this is an uplifting story of love and hope - and as such, it’s a highly entertaining and engaging read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would definitely recommend!
April 14, 2024
"Bathed In Moonlight", is a story of post-World War II, an American GI; Jimmy O'Brien, a Holocaust Survivor Greta, and an immense love story that sweeps you off your feet from the first page, first word. Bits of the Holocaust are told in flashback and while the horrors of that time and place play havoc on the characters and one, in particular, it is American GI's that bring closure to those atrocities. While it was refreshing to read the title in the book in the form of an actual sentence it helped cement where Kaywood had her mind set when writing this love letter. Slow-paced, erotic, and spicy without being smut this novel grips the heart at every twist, every turn, every unexpected challenge the cast of characters faces. Will love conquer all? WIll fate keep the lovers together? Can one forget horror after horror in the arms of another you'll have to read to find out...
September 24, 2024
What an outstanding write and story by Ms. Kaywood !
She crafts a tale of two lost souls and a chance encounter in the closing days of WW2 that draws the reader in completely. Deep emotions, realistic situations and difficult choices face the characters at every turn.
Plan on not setting this book down as it captivates your attention. You can’t wait to turn the page in this one. Rich, involved characters; the supporting cast is represented so very well. Emersion takes the reader to a time and place that they’ll feel they’re experiencing first hand.
The steamy sections are all one could want, you feel as if you’re part of the story. The writer’s descriptions and way with words will not leave you wanting !
Highest recommendation, even for a non-romance reader. Six out of five
She crafts a tale of two lost souls and a chance encounter in the closing days of WW2 that draws the reader in completely. Deep emotions, realistic situations and difficult choices face the characters at every turn.
Plan on not setting this book down as it captivates your attention. You can’t wait to turn the page in this one. Rich, involved characters; the supporting cast is represented so very well. Emersion takes the reader to a time and place that they’ll feel they’re experiencing first hand.
The steamy sections are all one could want, you feel as if you’re part of the story. The writer’s descriptions and way with words will not leave you wanting !
Highest recommendation, even for a non-romance reader. Six out of five
October 23, 2025
I am so glad I never have to read that again. Coming from the joys of ACOTAR, this was a disappointment. The characters felt so flat and almost every sentence ended with a period. HOW BORING???
Worst MMC name ever. JIMMY???? No thanks.
I did not appreciate this book at all, and was at time skimming pages just to get through the flat writing style. This is not how you write a book with WWII involved. While yes, it was impressive to see someone escape a concentration camps everything felt way too quick. There was no time for tension, or any relationship development. It all felt thrown in front of me. As if Stacia was writing with a gun to her head.
Worst MMC name ever. JIMMY???? No thanks.
I did not appreciate this book at all, and was at time skimming pages just to get through the flat writing style. This is not how you write a book with WWII involved. While yes, it was impressive to see someone escape a concentration camps everything felt way too quick. There was no time for tension, or any relationship development. It all felt thrown in front of me. As if Stacia was writing with a gun to her head.
September 13, 2023
I’m not a romance novel fan, but this book was still a good read. It takes place during WW2, and tells the story of a woman with a mysterious past, the boy who lives with her who may or may not be her son, and the wounded American soldier who interrupts their isolation.
The writing in this book is compelling and filled with emotions. The curiosity and intrigue surrounding the primary characters keeps the reader interested and asking questions as they read. If you enjoy historical romance sprinkled with mystery, I recommend this book.
The writing in this book is compelling and filled with emotions. The curiosity and intrigue surrounding the primary characters keeps the reader interested and asking questions as they read. If you enjoy historical romance sprinkled with mystery, I recommend this book.
July 31, 2023
Romance isn't my usual genre, but this book surprised me. The love affair between Greta and Jimmy is steamy and filled with the complications and expectations of each other as well as the backdrop of WW2 era Europe. The prose is crisp and elegant, and the story hits just the right pacing as it navigates themes of recovery, family, yearning, love, and identity. I am absolutely ready to read this a second time.
January 8, 2023
I won't lie, romance is not my preferred genre of book. But, this book surprised me! There was enough history and character development woven in that I wanted to keep reading. The directions this story took our characters, weaving together the past and present, all of it worked together to keep me invested.
May 28, 2024
Wonderfully heartwarming with just enough steam
Anyone who likes romance or war-related stories will find lots to love about this book. This author builds amazing characters that are as real as your neighbor, but twice as loveable.
Anyone who likes romance or war-related stories will find lots to love about this book. This author builds amazing characters that are as real as your neighbor, but twice as loveable.
February 18, 2023
Great read!
The author has such a gift of writing! She did such a great job with making you feel as if you really knew the characters and the way she described everything I could picture it so clearly. Great book to read!!
The author has such a gift of writing! She did such a great job with making you feel as if you really knew the characters and the way she described everything I could picture it so clearly. Great book to read!!
April 8, 2025
This book is romantic, epic, tragic, and ultimately beautiful. It played like a movie in my mind. You truly feel for these characters, and their journey..
September 10, 2025
This author is lovely, and I absolutely adored the main character, Greta! Jimmy, I wanted to pummel a few times, but he always redeemed himself! Such tragedy mixed with blessings.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews