Powerful Retelling of the Story of Esther — In 1944, blonde and blue-eyed Jewess Hadassah Benjamin feels abandoned by God when she is saved from a firing squad only to be handed over to a new enemy. Pressed into service by SS-Kommandant Colonel Aric von Schmidt at the transit camp of Theresienstadt in Czechoslovakia, she is able to hide behind the false identity of Stella Muller. However, in order to survive and maintain her cover as Aric's secretary, she is forced to stand by as her own people are sent to Auschwitz.
Suspecting her employer is a man of hidden depths and sympathies, Stella cautiously appeals to him on behalf of those in the camp. Aric's compassion gives her hope, and she finds herself battling a growing attraction for this man she knows she should despise as an enemy.
Stella pours herself into her efforts to keep even some of the camp's prisoners safe, but she risks the revelation of her true identity with every attempt. When her bravery brings her to the point of the ultimate sacrifice, she has only her faith to lean upon. Perhaps God has placed her there for such a time as this, but how can she save her people when she is unable to save herself?
MY THOUGHTS-This book here is one you will want to read again and again! Kate Breslin opens the book with questions and keeps you guessing until the end. This is based on the story of Esther and it very much brings the Bible to life. I was amazed at how it mirrored the Bible account.
The leading lady is Stella Muller, or as some know her, Hadassah. As the book starts we see her locked up in an attic unsure of what the day will bring. Could be death. Especially when a German officer arrives to take her away. I would have a hard time picking a favorite between Stella or Aric, the German officer. I like his kindness, boldness and compassion that many didn't show back then. This time period was fraught with hardships, murders and people showing racism because of someones blood. Stella shows stupendous courage as well and I quickly fell in love with her. My favorite part was at the end and Joseph brings his mother a gift from a soldier. Wow!! I had tears rolling down my cheeks and chills at the same time. What a story. Definitely be looking for others by Kate Breslin. An author who brought this novel to life.
**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**
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