James D Shipman

I received this book via a Goodreads Giveaway.

The idea behind the book was a great one, and this was the reason for the 3 stars. However the execution and delivery of the idea was sorely lacking, and I just couldn't finish this book.

The characters were not likable in any way, and I felt both Sara and Max were very anemic; Karl, on the other hand, had that hard edge I was expecting from others that had gone through what these characters had.

Sorry, but this just wasn't for me.… (more)

First sentence: The screams faded. Jakub hunted through the coat of a dead man. He searched with a practiced hand, groping through pockets, fingering seams. He felt something hard. Eyes forward, he tore at the fabric, ripping open a secret pocket. An object fell into his hand, circular and metallic. A watch. He glimpsed a flash of gold.

Premise/plot: Beyond the Wire is a historical novel set at Auschwitz-Birkenau circa 1944 through 1945. Jakub, our protagonist, has managed to survive the concentration camp...so far. But at great cost. His job, one of the 'cozier' jobs of the camp, is to go through the possessions of the new arrivals--those soon to be gassed/murdered. He is able to steal here and there enough to keep the guards bribed. He can buy extra food. He can buy his way into the women's camp to socialize. Anna, our second protagonist, is Jakob's girlfriend. They meet secretly. He is her protector. But they have secrets from one another... Jakob has been approached multiple times by Roch Laska, a prisoner who is plotting a revolt/revolution. Tomasz, Jacob's best-friend-and-companion, is dead-set against Jakob joining such a plot/scheme. Anna is "for" him joining, by the way. But soon he finds himself mixed in with the rebellion...for better or worse...and it starts with someone who is threatening Anna.

My thoughts: This is a very intense read. The author has a note on which elements of the story are 'true' and which are pure fiction. I believe the main characters--our two protagonists--are fictional. This one is packed with action and heartache.… (more)

A different type of WWII, actually the aftermath, 1948 Berlin. This book is really so much more, and I had so many mixed emotions as I turned this fast paced read.
Sarah Sturm now works for the US Department of Public Affairs, and is sent to investigate a hate crime against two Jewish brothers, and thus we are on an adventure to bring justice to those whom committed the war crimes.
The author gives us a bit of romance, but there are so many twists and turns, and lots of action. There are people presented that you will really dislike, but in the end want justice.
This is really a book that I didn't realize exactly what was happening, there are so many twists and surprises, and bombshells!
Be sure to read the author's notes at the end!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.… (more)

Ann Schroder's reviewApr 26, 2021 · edit
it was amazing
bookshelves: arc-giveaways

This is a fictional story based on true events. I loved it! My favorite genre is historical fiction. I had never heard of Irena before and now am intrigued to learn more about her.
The author displayed so much research in writing this novel. The back of the book also has some info on the characters, both fictional and real.
The book gripped me from the beginning. I did not want to put it down. There were so many intense moments that felt like I was there in the sewer muck right along with Irena and the children.
I will definitely read more from this author… (more)