THEIR ENTIRE LIVES, TWINS AVA AND SHALOM ARE LED TO BELIEVE THEY ARE GERMAN . . . UNTIL ONE NIGHT THEY FIND OUT THE TRUTH . . .
In the summer of 1921, outside the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Hanz Wolff finds twin baby girls in a wicker basket in his barn. Wrapped in woolen blankets embroidered with the Star of David, a note begs the German farmer and his barren wife to love and raise them as their own. Believing it to be a gift from God, the ecstatic couple keep the newborns’ Semitic heritage a secret, claiming that Maria had birthed them at home.
The Wolffs live in familial bliss as the girls grow into lovely, intelligent young women, shielded from the smoldering hatred and discrimination toward the Jews and others in Nazi Germany. But when the outbreak of the Second World War plunges Europe into chaos and terror, that which is hidden is threatened to be exposed.
One night a desperate Jewish woman comes to the farm, banging on the door, pleading for help to hide from the Schutzstaffel (SS) who have just slaughtered her entire family . . . It’s the girls’ birth mother! Soon secrets that have been long held for twenty years are revealed, profoundly altering everyone’s lives forever . . .
From the bestselling authors of The Consequence of Anna comes a new, riveting story about life before and during the Holocaust for Jewish twins, Ava and Shalom, raised as Germans. A heartbreaking yet triumphant tale of tragedy, bigotry, and hatred, superseded by love, art, and music, with many twists and turns leaving the reader breathless. A story that ultimately celebrates the true power of love, family, and the human spirit.
“Nothing I say will ever do this book justice, and it will stay with me forever. I will never forget the characters, the story, or the writing.”
"Such great writing style. A beautiful, emotional read, from sad, to hopeful, and angry too, but mostly grateful."
"Never before has there been a book about the Holocaust that explores the lives of the Jewish community on such a personal level before the catastrophe. Ava and Shalom does that seamlessly, giving a voice to the voiceless."
“Suddenly, the Holocaust didn’t just happen to a group of people in a faraway country long ago. It happened to people I’d just met and felt connected to. A deeply moving and truly unforgettable story!”
"Birkin and Bornz have an incredible ability to create a horrifying tale of the Holocaust while also interlacing a beautiful story of family, love, heartbreak, and redemption. 'Free, has there ever been a more beautiful word?' Outstanding story!"
“Unique storytelling and intricate characterization. Achingly beautiful and memorable with plots and subplots that flowed seamlessly, engaging me from beginning to end. Those who read World War II historical fiction ought to prioritize this one. You won’t regret it.”
"An exceptional and heartbreaking story that crackles with poignant writing amidst the cruelty and devastation of World War II, ethralling readers with an intricate tale of deception, romance, and survival. These intensely gifted authors deliver a stunning reflection on the past that feels more profound and timely than ever."
"A deeply moving and truly unforgettable story of love and survival. A must-read that celebrates family, resilience, and the enduring power of hope!"
“Sensational… Deeply personal… An emotional and moving story of human resilience through the deadliest conflict in human history. This gripping novel of both devastation and hope is a must-read. I highly recommend!”
