The Eagle’s Shadow by Michael Reit. Vienna in 1938 is a bit of a nightmare for all involved. Apparently this is going to be a series of books and I’m not going to read the next ones. I wanted to love it but I didn’t care about any of these people and the pacing of the this book did not grab me.

What a powerful premise for a historical fiction novel! It sounds like *The Eagle's Shadow* truly delivered for fans of stories set during the tumultuous period of the Anschluss and the rise of Nazi Germany. Having three distinct points of view—an Austrian Jew determined to free his father from Dachau, a rising German Nazi, and a determined Czech woman confronting the Nazi invasion of her homeland—must have made for an incredibly immersive and engaging reading experience, especially with such well-developed characters. While it's a shame that the beginning was a bit slow, it's clear that the compelling narrative and strong character development ultimately made it a worthwhile read.

In the Jewish district of Leopoldstadt, Felix Wolff watches his beloved city transform into a nightmare. As people are rounded up and sent to unknown destinations, Felix’s world is upended when his father is bound for Dachau. Determined to save his father, Felix makes a fateful decision. ny.

Karl Vogt is a rising star in the Sicherheitsdienst. Known for his ruthless efficiency, he is entrusted with solving the Third Reich’s growing Jewish problem. As his zeal catapults him further up the Nazi hierarchy, Karl unknowingly helps lay the groundwork for one of history’s greatest atrocities.

In Prague, Adela Beran works as a translator for the foreign ministry, watching Hitler’s shadow creep closer to her homeland. Feeling powerless to protect her country and loved ones, she seizes a dangerous opportunity to resist. The cost of failure is certain death, but success could mean freedom for those she holds dear.

As war draws closer, their fates collide in a treacherous game of survival, resistance, and betrayal.

This is the first book I have read by this author and I will be coming back looking for more, especially the sequel to this book as he leaves the storyline hanging at the end. Thank you to the NetGalley and the publisher for introducint me to another new author that I will be reading again as he develops these characters and the scenes in the countries as Germany takes over so well.

Wow what a read. I don’t normally like political books but this was intriguing and kept you on your toes. The characters were well described in as much I could visualise and where they were in their story. Well written and a good read.

An Okay Read!

I equate reading The Eagle’s Shadow, Michael Reit’s pre-WWII historical fiction book, to be the equivalent of a VERY normal EKG reading from a cardiologist; in that the test shows almost no unusual fluctuations in your heart rate from start to finish. While this is what you hope for in a test of this type, I want more from a book in terms of its impact on my excitement and other emotional levels. The Eagle’s Shadow did not accomplish this result for me. Overall, my experience with The Eagle’s Shadow is that while there was nothing I particularly disliked about it, there was also nothing I particularly liked about the book.

Reit provides an interesting historical perspective on the Nazi’s plan to annex Austria, Czechoslovakia and Poland leading up to the start of WWii; although this perspective lacks much excitement and depth. Similarly, the book’s plot and main characters are just serviceable enough to move the historical elements of the book, but also lacking in sufficient excitement and depth

Be aware that The Eagle’s Shadow is Reit’s first book in his planned series, burnit’s unlikely that I’ll be moving forward with this series.

#The Eagle’s Shadow #NetGalley

3 1/3 stars
Set in 1938 at the start of ww2 this is a fascinating and unique historical fiction book. It follows the lives of three different people ~ Karl who is in the SS, Felix a young Jewish man and Adela who works as a translator in the forgiven ministry. This is a story of survivals, betrayal, friendship and resilience. This is a unique read as it’s set during the first few years of ww2 and you get to learn about what happened during that time which is often left out of other historical fiction books. Each character was interesting to read about. There is a lot of facts throughout this book and you really feel like you learn a lot about history. I always find it fascinating to read about those in SS, it always blows my mind the hatred they have for the Jews and the horrific things they do to them.. I look forward to reading the next book in the series and following these characters as the war goes on.
The reason I gave this book 3 1/2 stars is because I found the start of the book slow to read and also quite confusing at times.
I would recommend this book especially if you love historical fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book, all opinions expressed are my own.

An excellent read, with interesting and well-rounded characters - both historical, and created, and a well written plot. 'The Eagle's Shadow' is set in Austria and Czechoslovakia just before World War 2, with three parallel stories, which occasionally intertwine. I'm looking forward to the sequel, and would recommend it to anyone.

With thanks to NetGalley and 700 Miles Publishing for an ARC.

Little known facts regarding WWII in Austria and Czechoslovakia emerge from #authorMichaelReit new historical fiction series. Primary characters are Felix, a Jew who was living in the Jewish section of Vienna; Adele, a fluent in five languages young woman working in the Czech government in Prague; and Karl, a Nazi bent on rising to the top echelon of Nazis officers. I could have read this book quicker but it made me stop and google various dates, places, words—all factors to me in making this a great book. While only covering March, 1938, to September, 1939, I can’t wait for the next book in The Covert War Chronicles. A book to be savored not only for its importance in World History but also for travelers-armchair or those walking the streets. Thanks to #MichaelReit, #NetGalley and publisher #BookWhisper for an ARC; this is my honest review.

The Eagle’s Shadow by Michael Reit is a different kind of Holocaust novel. It follows three people primarily: Felix Wolff, a young Jewish man from Vienna; Karl Vogt, a young man who arranged things for the Reich, and did well at it; and Adela Beran, a young woman in Prague, who facilitated escapes from affected areas when she was able. It was intriguing to watch as each of these characters grew and succeeded in their own isolated worlds. Karl was a devoted Nazi who had a knack for arranging covert activities, especially those designed to throw the blame where the Nazi’s wanted it. He was a gift to those spreading propaganda. Adela used her position to covertly assist where it was needed, probably as many people did at that time, but certainly not all. Felix lost his father to Dachau and escaped, with Adela’s help, leaving his mother behind at her insistence.

The character development was astounding, especially Karl’s. He was evil but he was good at it and Reit wrote the characters so that the reader both hated and admired him. A conundrum. Felix had noted what was to come early on, before the Nazis came, but like many, his father thought it would blow over it they kept their heads down. A mistake. Adela was quiet, but effective. The whole thing was a little overwhelming, different than most Holocaust novels in its approach. It was a rewarding read in that the motivations of each were made so clear. Good read.

I was invited to read The Eagle’s Shadow by Book Whisperer. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BookWhisperer #MichaelReit #TheEaglesShadow

Michael Reit’s The Eagle’s Shadow is a masterfully crafted historical thriller that immerses readers in the perilous world of World War II espionage. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Reit brings to life the emotional and physical toll of war. The novel’s richly developed characters and unflinching portrayal of wartime realities make it a compelling read for fans of the genre. I Highly recommended for those seeking a gripping and authentic historical narrative Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Felix Wolff, a Jew from Leopoldstadt, Austria in 1938 saw his country fold to the Nazis. His father was going to be sent to a work camp in Dachau and Felix worked out a deal to take his place. After working hard and being a faithful leader at the camp, he is released if he will immediately leave Austria.

This historical fiction covers a period which is most always ignored, and little is written about it. As Felix plans to move to Poland, where Jews can get jobs, Nazi troops amass at the border.

Read this if you are interested in WWII history, this story probably occurred hundreds of times. I loved it.

I was given this pre-release copy by Book Whisperer if I gave an honest review.

This the first book I have read by this author. It was a very interesting read and I particularly liked that the narrative was given through 3 different characters. It was interesting to read through the eyes of some one that you held no sympathies for, as for Karl Vogt. More sympathy was felt for Felix and Adela. A strange juxtaposition to read events as the unfolded through eyes on opposing sides of humanity.

I really enjoyed this book! I read a lot of historical fiction and this book was very different from the other ones that I have read about World War II. You don’t read much about the events leading up to the war and I thought that was a very interesting perspective. I look forward to it being a series because I can’t wait to see what happens with Felix and Adela specifically! I also really appreciate the shorter chapters. It made it easier to read and kept you involved in each of the characters without forgetting what happened previously.

Very good historical fiction which brings the horrors of Hitler and his regime into focus front and center,
Felux Wolff's entire life changes forever when Hitler invades and takes over his beloved Austria.
His town is ransacked and the Jews captured and sent to death camps or forced into hiding.
Very chilling reminder of what dictators are capable of and how easily led some populations can be,
Strong characters that easily identifiable and good plot with non-stop action and intrigue as Félix works to outwit his enemies.

Michael Reit has done it right, again.

What makes this historical work of fiction of his extra interesting for me is what I consider an unusual angle. More often than not WWII historical fiction narrations involve the German or Austrian setting or even from Britain's perspective. Additionally, there is some mention of Poland, which is more well known. Besides Austra, this one covers the run up and the "peaceful" invasion of Czechoslavokia. I have often wondered what Hitler's beef was with this country and I've found some answers in the story telling. Of course, as this is indeed fiction, there is likely much "salt and pepper" added.

In this writing, a reader will meet some of the 'real' people of history such a Hitler, Reinhard Heydrick, Morevac and others. Karl is fictitious but is a major source of seeing things through Nazi eyes. We see the Jewish perspective through Felix and family's eyes in Austria, as well as Greta's in Czechoslavokia. Through Adela's eyes we gain insight of what went on in upper levels of Czech government departments in the months prior to Hitler's invasion. There's even some spy work in the mix, so that's an added excitement.

Felix was quite battered about but I won't say more on that account - Reit says it all. A little spark of romance seasons the works but I await Book 2, the next in this new, The Covert War Chronicles series for the unfolding scenario. Hope the wait won't be too long.

I rather enjoyed this clean tale and believe many others will too, especially if you like it combined with WWII historical sagas.

~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

This is my first book my Michael Reit and I am looking forward to the next book in this series and his other books.
Most WW II stories are about the hero's and victims and when war arrives in their country. What was unique about this book was the backstory of how the Nazi planned and executed taking Austria, Czechoslovakia and Poland, by a main character, Karl Vogt an ambitious young man within the Nazi party. The other main characters are a young Jewish man, Felix Wolff and in Prague, Adela Beran works as a translator for the foreign ministry and we read how their lives intersect throughout the book.
While the pacing was a bit uneven in the beginning, it smooths out and engages the reader into the story with rich details, descriptive historical events that makes you feel the rising loss of freedom, increased fears and violence and helplessness to stop the organized and sanctioned death and destruction. There is violence that is somewhat graphic but not overly dramatic and aligns with the context of the historical events.
Woven throughout are acts of love, courage and compassion by a variety of individuals who are trying to save those being persecuted and resisting the evil that is being committed. The treachery and betrayal not only between the neighbors and citizens but within the Nazi party and the way they vie to be rise within the party and be closer to Hitler is suspenseful as well as fascinating to read. The use of propaganda, media manipulation and the growing intimidation of people with restrictions limiting their ability to vote, go to school and exclusions from society are laid out in chilling details from Karl's viewpoint.
If you enjoy WW II historical fiction and are looking for a new perspective viewpoint that is highly engaging, detailed historical fiction with characters that pull you into their reality, I would highly recommend reading this book.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and 700 Miles Publishing for the ARC, it was a privilege and pleasure to read. All opinions expressed are my own.

Choices are important in this tale of courage and sacrifice. The story dots around Nazi Europe: from Austria to Dachau; from the Czech Republic to our hearts. It brings home the horrors faced by those who are rounded up for transportation. But what makes this story stand out is that it also follows the progress of one Karl Vogt who is tasked with preparing the way for the crime of the 20thCentury. However, although his passion for the Third Reich is great, and his desire to rise through the ranks, he is unaware that the work he is doing will lead to the holocaust. There are times when this story is hard to read but perceiver with it, you will be rewarded.
Thanks to Michael Reit, Netgalley and 700 Miles Publishing for the ARC.

This novel is based around Austria and Czechoslovakia from 3 different views. Felix, a Jewish man , Adela a lady in Czechoslovakia who works in government and. Karl, a Nazi.
This book had me hooked from the beginning to the end. It's a 5 star from me .

This is a very good book. I would recommend it to everyone. Thank you for writing such a great book for us!

I thoroughly enjoyed this pre-World War II novel about Germany’s annexation of Austria, the Sudetenland, and Czechoslovakia.

Author Michael Reit tells his story through three main characters. The first, Felix, is an Austrian Jew initially imprisoned in Buchenwald and then exiled from Austria, who must move from country to country to remain ahead of the advancing Nazi juggernaut and re-imprisonment.

The second is Adela, a translator serving important members of the Czech government who also helps Jews escaping from Austria into Czechoslovakia. When the Nazis invade Prague, she takes her first steps towards becoming an intelligence operative.

The third is Karl, an ambitious German bureaucrat working for Germany’s notorious SD. He is so competent that he becomes an assistant to the head of the SD, Richard Heydrich, and manages the nuts and bolts of the takeover of each country, as well as the imprisonment of prominent Jewish citizens and other political opponents. Indeed, Karl does his job so well that he comes to the notice of both Heinrich Himmler and Adolf Hitler.

Three characters, three different perspectives on what it was like “on the ground” as Germany took over Austria and Czechoslovakia just prior to WWII.

The Eagle’s Shadow is the first in a planned series. I look forward to reading the next one.

My thanks to NetGalley, author Michael Reit, and publisher Book Whisperer for providing me with a complimentary ARC. All of the foregoing is my honest, independent opinion.