Ellie Midwood crafts compelling historical fiction that delves into the complex narratives of World War II and the Holocaust. Her writing is characterized by meticulous research and a deep engagement with the human element of history, often inspired by personal family experiences. Midwood's approach brings the past to life through vivid storytelling and an exploration of resilience and moral ambiguity. She masterfully reconstructs pivotal moments, offering readers a profound understanding of individual lives shaped by momentous events.
Inspired by a true story, an absolutely heartbreaking and gripping World War 2 novel
346 pages
13 hours of reading
Set against the harrowing backdrop of Auschwitz, the narrative follows Alma Rosé, a courageous violinist turned conductor of the camp's orchestra. Initially resistant to perform for the Nazis, she soon recognizes the potential to save lives through her music. Amidst despair, Alma finds solace and love with pianist Miklos, creating secret moments of joy. This poignant tale of bravery and resilience illustrates how love can flourish even in the darkest times, leaving readers deeply moved and inspired.
A totally gripping and absolutely heartbreaking World War 2 page-turner, inspired by a true story
400 pages
14 hours of reading
Set against the harrowing backdrop of Auschwitz, the story follows Mala Zimetbaum, the first woman to escape the camp. As an SS interpreter, she risks her life to save others, while forming a deep bond with Edward, a political prisoner and Resistance member. Together, they dare to believe in the possibility of escape, forging a powerful love story amidst unimaginable tragedy. Inspired by true events, this novel explores themes of courage, love, and resilience in the darkest of times, promising an emotional journey for readers.
"Germany, 1941: We live together, or we die together. The inspiring true story of Ilse Stein, a German Jew who was imprisoned in a ghetto--and who fell in love with the man she was supposed to loathe. For Ilse life is unrecognizable. A year ago, she wasn't forced to wear a star on her clothes. A year ago, her parents were alive, not yet killed by their own countrymen. A year ago, she had her freedom. Now, at the break of dawn, she steps off the cattle train into a Minsk ghetto. This is Ilse's new home: trapped by barbed wire, surrounded by SS guards she is forbidden to look in the eye, with no choice but to trade the last of her belongings for scraps of food. Sentenced for the crime of simply existing, she doesn't expect to live past the summer. Yet the prisoners in the ghetto refuse to give up--the underground resistance is plotting their escape. Ilse's first act of defiance is smuggling from the munitions factory, slipping bullets into the lining of her pockets. But this is just the beginning ... When Ilse meets Wilhem, a local SS administrative officer, she never dreams that her greatest rebellion will be falling for him. Wilhem promises that she will survive, even if the cost is his life. But in a world of such danger, daring to love is the most dangerous risk of all ..."--Provided by publisher
