Beyond Bestsellers
Chamine da Mota Bookstore - Porto, Portugal
Beyond Amazon, Barnes & Noble, New York Times, and other top book charts or book clubs (Good Morning America, Reese Witherspoon, Read with Jenna, etc.), I also LOVE finding those hidden gems beyond the bestsellers.
If that’s you (and you love historical fiction like me), grab your glass of wine or cup of tea and get settled!
I’m going to provide some MUST-READ historical fiction books that you may have not heard of, and if you have, be affirmed that you have great taste in books!
The Air Raid Book Club: This is a wonderful, heartfelt story that is inspired by true events. Taking place during WWII, it demonstrates the power of books in bringing hope, friendship, love, and knowledge amidst a trying and devastating time. The variety of characters will draw you in and dive deeper into the meaning of family, relationships, and connection. You will be touched by this book, never wanting it to end.
The Black Swan of Paris: This book transports you back to 1944 Paris amidst the glitz and glamour of star studded performances and Nazi wealth and luxury, contrasted with the hardship of Parisians and the spy networks preparing for the Allied invasion. There is tragedy and triumph, romance and heartache. You will not want to put this book down!
The Opera Sisters: Based on the true story of the Cook sisters, who smuggled valuables out of Nazi Germany to finance a secret operation helping Jews escape, providing hope for a future in England and beyond. It is an inspiring story of compassion, courage, strength, and faith. A story of ordinary people doing the extraordinary. The Cook sisters’ story will leave a mark on your heart and the reminder that what seems impossible can be possible if we set our minds and our hearts on what is good and true. This book is a discovery you will not want to miss!
The Last Garden in England: This is a lovely and captivating story that interweaves the lives of five women and transports you to England through three different time periods. This sounds like a lot, but the writing is well thought out and beautifully done. If you love historical fiction and gardening (or walking through gardens admiring the beauty like myself), you will love this book!
Daughter of the Reich: This is a gripping story of the daughter of a high-ranking Nazi official who becomes conflicted between siding with the Nazi regime and anti-semitism, against her passion and love for a friend who is Jewish and whom she has known for most of her life. This is a story of survival and freedom, and strength in the power of love. This story was inspired by the author’s family history with in-depth and detailed research, there is much to be discovered!
The Violinist of Auschwitz: Based on the true and extraordinary story of Alma Rosé, an Austrian violinist of Jewish decent. An inspiring heroine whose courage and bravery saved numerous lives instilling hope during one of the darkest periods of time. This is a story that will touch your heart, and one the you will not want to miss out on!
Under the Light of the Italian Moon: Taking place during WWII Italy and the rise of fascism, is an epic story based on true events that spans over two decades. Themes of strength, determination, love, war, and sacrifice are interwoven throughout the book. It is an inspiring story that will leave you feeling connected to this Italian family.
The Teacher of Warsaw: Based on the true and powerful story of Janusz Korczak, a hero who attempted to save hundreds of Jewish children and whose bravery and courage instilled hope in so many trying to survive against the Nazis in WWII Poland. It is inspiring and also heart-rending. This is a story that should be read and a reminder of how important it is to not forget.
The Last Hours in Paris: Taking you back in time to 1940s Paris and 1960s Brittany, this is a powerful story of love and forgiveness amidst war and the sacrifices that come through enduring that. You will fall in love with the characters and feel like you are a part of their story.
The Porcelain Maker: This is a captivating and beautifully written book with elements of mystery, love, betrayal, and courage, as well as artistic expression at it’s core. The book transports us through different time periods that flow together and are well developed. The author takes us though 21st century America and Europe, the Bauhaus art movement in Germany into WWII to the Allach porcelain factory in Dachau, among others. This was the first time I had heard about the porcelain factory, the sponsorship of Heinrich Himmler and how the porcelain made was supposed to symbolize Nazi ideals. If you love historical fiction and want read something new or that has not been referenced often, this book is just the thing!
So, dear discoverer, if you enjoy these (which I hope you do!) or want some more recommendations, feel free to connect and stay tuned for more book reviews!
Much love,
