The Secret Society of Salzburg

by Renee Ryan

Book Overview

From the author of The Widows of Champagne, and inspired by true events, comes a gripping and heartwrenching story of two very different women united to bring light to the darkest days of World War II.

London, 1933

At first glance, Austrian opera singer Elsa Mayer-Braun has little in common with the young English typist she encounters on tour. Yet she and Hattie Featherstone forge an instant connection--and strike...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1335427562
• ISBN13: 9781335427564
• Release Date: December 2022
• Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
• Length: 368 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.2" x 7.8"

Customer Reviews

Historical fiction

Just finished reading this Excellant book ..the first for me, by this author, and definitely would read anything else by her. The story takes place just before Germany and England go to war..But The Country Of Austria had been Absorbed by Germany and the Up and coming Adolf Hitler ! Anti-Semitism is already in full swing all throughout Germany and now with his foothold in Austria..they are enforcing the same laws against the Jewish people as that are in place in Germany. Totally by chance two young sisters save all their hard erned money to see the famous Opera Singer Elsa Mayer- Braun...after hearing her recordings from a lecture by Elsa's aunt at a college. Hattie, who is the artistic one of the sisters gives Elsa a portrait she painted of her...just by listening to her recordings..she painted Elsa the way she imagined her to be in that Opera . When Hattie and her sister Vera meet Elsa before her performance...they form an immediate friendship that would last their lifetime. As things progress in Austria..life of persecution for the Jews, Hattie and Elsa And Vera, Form a secret society ...to rescue as many Jewish people as they can ! Elsa having the safe houses set up in Austria...and Hattie and her Sister Vera being the ones that ride with them back To England, and find them jobs, places to stay, and sponsors who all want to help as many as possible. There are a few other characters in the story that give it depth, intrigue, emotional feelings of strength, and courage, and HOPE at such a dark time in this part of the world. There are many twists and turns, that lead to drama, courage , strength and friendships that are solid and unbreakable. A great Novel that shows the strength and resilience of women. Beautifully written.., I highly recommend this book, good Historical fiction...I loved it to the very last word!!! So much more to the story..can't possibly put it all here, but really recommend this very good book !!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Unique and captivating historical fiction

“It’s a question I ask myself every day. If not us, who then will stand?” An absolute gem of a read! This book gripped my heart and mind from the first page and didn’t let go until the very last. It was my introduction to the author’s writing - I’ll be sure to read her backlist and be on the lookout for future novels. I am not an opera fan but loved being transported to that world on the cusp of WWII. The author made that environment come alive and the passion in opera came across beautifully. I loved both Elsa and Hattie - two strong heroines who risk all to rescue those in need. There are plenty of surprises in the plot which kept it moving at a good pace. Heartache, betrayal, loyalty, true friendship, and desperation to help those in need fill the pages of this book and it’ll surely become one of your favorites as well. I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.