𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

𝙈𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:

This was a beautifully layered, emotionally complex historical novel that really stayed with me. The German Wife tackles impossible choices in impossible times, and Kelly Rimmer does an incredible job blurring the lines between right and wrong, guilt and survival, love and complicity.

Told in dual timelines—from Nazi Germany during WWII to 1950s America during Operation Paperclip—it follows Sofie, a woman married to a Nazi scientist, and Lizzie, an American woman whose life was shattered by the Dust Bowl and war. Their paths cross in unexpected and volatile ways, and what unfolds is a powerful exploration of judgment, forgiveness, and the human cost of war.

Sofie’s chapters hit especially hard. Rimmer doesn’t shy away from the moral gray areas—what does it mean to stay, to protect your family, to survive a regime you never supported? And how does the world look at you afterward? The emotional tension is relentless in the best way.

The pacing dragged a bit in places, but the storytelling was thoughtful and affecting throughout. If you like your historical fiction with weight, nuance, and heart, this one’s worth picking up.

Thank you to NetGalley, Graydon House, and Kelly Rimmer for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

📚 The German Wife is available now.

I love other Kelly Rimmer books, so I was excited to read this one. I just didn't connect with the characters in this one. I found it slow and dragging for the majority of the book. I do appreciate the research that went in to it. A solid 3 stars from me.

**Book Review: The German Wife by Kelly Rimmer**

Kelly Rimmer’s *The German Wife* is an evocative historical novel that delves into the tumultuous and complex nature of love, loyalty, and the burdens of history. The story is set against the backdrop of World War II and follows the intertwining lives of two women, each grappling with the repercussions of their choices during a time of extraordinary turmoil.

The pace of the novel is well-balanced—a blend of reflective moments and gripping events that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. Rimmer expertly paces the narrative, allowing space for the characters’ development and the buildup of tension, yet ensuring that the reader is never left wanting for action or emotional payoff. As the plot unfolds, Rimmer’s skill in storytelling invites you into the lives of her characters, making you feel their joys and sorrows alongside them.

One of the prominent themes in *The German Wife* is the exploration of morality in times of war. Rimmer challenges the reader to think critically about patriotism, love, and betrayal, posing uncomfortable questions about what it means to stand by one’s beliefs when faced with unimaginable choices. The dichotomy between personal and political allegiance plays a significant role throughout the book, prompting introspection about the nature of conflict and humanity.

Another essential theme is the resilience of the human spirit. The characters are faced with impossible situations, yet they exhibit incredible strength and determination to survive and protect their loved ones. Rimmer beautifully captures the nuances of sisterhood and friendship, showcasing how bonds can transcend fear and adversity.

The narrative style is both immersive and lyrical. Rimmer has a way with words that enhances the emotional weight of the story without becoming melodramatic. Her prose is clear and poignant, making the historical context accessible while still allowing for depth and nuance. The shifting perspectives between the two main characters provide a well-rounded view of their experiences, creating a rich tapestry of voices that resonate deeply with the reader.

In conclusion, I highly recommend *The German Wife* to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that is both thought-provoking and emotionally charged. Rimmer’s novel is a beautifully woven tale that explores the intricacies of human relationships amidst the chaos of war, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. Prepare to be captivated and moved by this powerful narrative that lingers long after the last page is turned.

This one was such an interesting take on a WWII novel with the differing perspectives from the German and US sides with some further pieces of history to give additional context and insight into the characters motives and motivations. Really kept me on the edge of my seat and I really felt for all the characters. Not a great situation for any of them to be in. Really looking forward to reading more Kelly Rimmer books when I’m in a historical fiction mood!

Kelly Rimmer’s The German Wife is a deeply moving and thought-provoking historical novel that explores the moral complexities and emotional scars left behind by World War II. The story alternates between two timelines—one following Sofie, a German woman grappling with the fallout of her husband’s involvement in the Nazi regime, and the other set in the 1950s, where Sofie’s past collides with Lizzie, a Texan woman affected by the war in her own way.

Rimmer does an excellent job of drawing readers into both the historical and emotional landscapes of the novel. Sofie’s journey is especially compelling, as she navigates the impossible choices forced upon her by the Nazi regime and the difficult path to survival. Her guilt and shame, intertwined with the sacrifices she made, are portrayed with nuance and empathy. Lizzie’s post-war American experience serves as a poignant contrast, highlighting the cultural tension and mistrust that existed in the post-WWII era, especially as former Nazi scientists were brought into the U.S. under Operation Paperclip.

One of the novel's strengths is how it handles the gray areas of morality, making readers question what they might have done in the same situation. The character development, particularly for Sofie, is rich and multifaceted, and the dual perspectives are seamlessly woven together. The emotional weight of the book builds gradually, creating a strong payoff in the final chapters as both women's lives intersect in unexpected ways.

While the book is powerful and well-written, at times the pacing can feel slow, and the alternating timelines occasionally disrupt the momentum. Some readers might also find certain elements of the narrative predictable, particularly if they are familiar with historical fiction centered around WWII. However, the emotional depth and moral dilemmas more than make up for these minor flaws.

The German Wife is a compelling exploration of survival, guilt, and forgiveness, set against a backdrop of one of history’s darkest periods. It’s a gripping, well-researched novel that will resonate with fans of historical fiction long after the final page.

4.5 rounded up to 5 !

This book got me out of my reading slump , hallelujah !!

This book was such a beautiful, emotional and unique story unlike any other WWII story! ‘The German Wife’ wasn’t so focused on the concentration camps that is often the stem of WWII stories and more focuses on a different perspective of two strong women , one German and one American who both face different harsh realities during this horrific time.

The alternating POV’s and alternating timelines worked so well for this book , made the story perfectly organized and easy to follow.

The ending was .. 🥹🖤🥹😭

I desperately NEED to read all of the other books by this author.

I loved this book! It's well-written, enjoyable, and a great read. The author did a great job of writing in a way that captures the readers attention, and makes you not want to put it down until you're finished! I would highly recommend it!

I really enjoy this author’s writing, and this book was another hit for me. It’s smart, thoughtful, and engaging. Even though there were several different settings and characters, I thought the characters were well-developed and I felt invested in each of the storylines. Thank you NetGalley for the e-book. I bought a hard copy for myself and will gladly recommend this to others.

I devoured this book and I have now added this author as a must read for me now!

It’s 1933 - and we meet Lizzie and Henry in the United States and Sofie and Jurgen in Germany.

Lizzie and Henry are children and work on their family’s almost bankrupt farm. Their farm failed, Lizzie married, and Henry was sent to fight in the war. Lizzie really didn’t want to get married, and Henry ended up with PTSD from the war.

Jugren and Sofie are well off until Jurgen is forced out of his job at the university because he wouldn’t comply with the German thinking and as a result had to work for the Germans on the rocket program or be without work and/or in jail.

Jurgen didn’t want to be part of it because he knew the rocket program wasn’t really going to be for rockets but for explosives, but Jurgen had no choice.

1950 - we meet the characters again in the United States.

Lizzie and her husband’s home is in Huntsville, Alabama, and Henry lives with them. Both are not fond of the Germans who are here. The entire town has a difficult time accepting the Germans and their families.

Jurgen has been here for five years working on Operation Paperclip without his family. When his family arrives, the town is to welcome his family and the other German families, but it is a difficult get together - especially for Lizzie and Sofia.

Sofie tried to explain what they really went through and that they didn’t agree but had to. Lizzie and others didn’t want to hear it.

The German Wife is a Kelly Rimmer at her best! I loved this one, she is a sure fire hit author for me. This one has an alternating narrator which I tend to enjoy with alternating timelines...which I also enjoy. This was not confusing to me or "weird" until the end. The stories of two connected women that had life circumstances decided for them was really well done. Both women were full people-with good and bad which was relatable. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Sofie is a newcomer to America from Germany and is anxious to reunite with her husband who is working on America's space program. As she adjusts to living in America her past life in Germany during WWII is slowly being revealed to the reader as Sofie encounters prejudice and violence. A fresh look at a little known aspect of history.

thank you Simon and Schuster Canada and netgalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Set in both before and after WW2, this dual timeline and dual perspective story follows American Lizzie and German Sofie as they deal with the hardships before the war and after finding themselves living in the same Alabama town. Their husbands working together on "Operation Paperclip," an undercover part of the NASA space program that pardoned German scientists and former Nazis leaders in exchange for their intelligence.

I think Kelly RImmer writes one hell of a historical fiction novel. I haven't read many in this genre but when it centers around WW2 I am always interested. The direction this one takes really tugs at the heart string and it felt like a fresh perspective with new information.

Kelly Rimmer writes some of the best historical fiction today. Her stories are heartfelt and gut wrenching.

The German Wife is no exception. The characters crawled into my skin and have stayed there. The plot had wonderful pacing, and I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend.

Hands down, my favorite book of Kelly Rimmer's. She is a historical fiction genius. Sometimes I feel like "how many WWII books can we read?" But this one was different. I learned so much history from this book. I didn't realize that German scientists came to the United States to help us. I loved how it was written from two points of view as well as two time periods as well. I recommend it to everyone I talk to. 5 amazing stars!

At the end of WWII some of the German officials were arrested, some fled to South America or other places and some were flown to the U.S. to work on Operation Paperclip. Sofie’s husband, Jurgen, was one of the lucky ones who didn’t face retribution but instead, was given a job working for the American government on their rocket program.

Sofie and her husband never agreed with the Nazis philosophy but they felt they had little choice but to show allegiance. When the opportunity to start over in America presents itself, they jump at the chance. But not everyone in the U.S. is pleased to have Germans now in their midst.

Rimmer does a fabulous job of telling the unvarnished story of a family who was part of the worst genocide in history. The phrase being caught “between a rock and a hard place” is exemplified in Jurgen’s position in Germany. It’s guilt that becomes the integral issue of the book. What options did the scientist have? How would any person act if their own family’s survival was at stake? And how does a family move on after acting without scruples? Furthermore, shouldn’t there be retribution for one’s actions?

This complex issue is riveting and thought provoking. Guilt and accountability are not always satisfied. Our government made deliberate decisions that let some escape punishment. It’s problematic and troubling. A fascinating book that is sure to generate intense discussion.

I love Kelly Rimmer’s books and this one did not disappoint! Seeing both sides of the situation was eye opening. You think you know how you would react to Germans living in the US so quickly after the war but seeing their side gives you pause. Sometimes we are just doing the best we can in our circumstances. I will absolutely be recommending this to others. Thank you for the advanced reader copy!

-Thank you for the opportunity to review this book.
-My first time reading a Kelly Runner’s was The Things We Cannot Say, which I was privileged to get that book on NetGalley.
-I found myself struggling a lot when reading this book and was not engaged.

This was a truly heartbreaking story. I had never heard of Operation Paperclip before, and I was very intrigued to learn about it, both through this story and in my own research.

I was morally conflicted throughout the book, never quite sure where I fell on right/wrong and justice. I felt for all the characters, and kept asking myself what I would have done in each of their positions. My answers change each time I think about it. The best novels make you think, and this did just that while telling the story!

I received an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

The year is 1950 and Sophie has just arrived to Hunstville, Alabama, to be reunited with her husband Jurgen, who was brought over by the Americans to work on space technology. It is here that she meets Lizzie, wife of Jurgen's boss, Calvin. Lizzie and others are not comfortable having Germans living freely in their town on the heels of WWII, especially ones with rumored ties to the Nazis.

Kelly Rimmer can do no wrong. I loved this one even though it broke my heart about 193 times. I felt all of the things - anger, frustration, sadness and even some happiness (though very little). I loved the dual POVs and the timeline - it took us back to Sophie and Lizzie's life prior to the war and led us right up to present day, filling in the puzzle pieces to create their full stories. I also liked learning about Operation Paperclip, something I've never heard of before. I enjoy learning about different perspectives and experiences through the war, and this was one I've never encountered previously. I honestly can't say enough good things - any lover of historical fiction should pick this book up.

I also loved the Author's Note at the end and encourage everyone to read it once you finish. It's so easy to judge others and say you would do things differently but it's impossible to know until you're in their shoes. I battled with the ending myself and how to feel about Sophie and Jergen; I think Kelly put it perfectly.

An easy 5 stars. I loved it.

This book starts as a slow burn but OMG did I love this! I woke up at 5am to finish reading it before work.
This book tackles really complex issues about morality and what is right - it def made me look at history differently, and the characters are so well developed, I feel like they were real people.
And the ending.... gosh that ending!