@annetteoppenlanderauthor @GoddessFishPromotions
@annette.oppenlander @goddessfishpromotions
@aoppenlander @GoddessFish
Captivating, gripping and relentlessly authentic...inspired by eyewitness accounts.
To this day, the Berlin airlift presents one of the most dramatic and daring historic events of post WWII Germany, pinning east against west, and cementing the Cold War against Soviet Russia. Without the help of America’s brave pilots, two million Berliners would’ve been lost to Stalin’s dictatorial regime, the future of Europe may have turned out entirely different.
Berlin, May 1945: As the war finally ends, Lotte Berger's apartment lies in rubble, her mother suffers a breakdown after an assault by Russian soldiers, and both, Lotte's father and fiancé are missing in Russia. Only when Mitch Cameron, an American pilot, comes to her aid after an accident, does she regain hope. Just as they are growing closer, Lotte's fiancé reappears under suspicious circumstances...
Berlin, June 1948: Lotte has fought her way through the aftermath of WWII and a devastating loss, when Russia’s dictator, Josef Stalin, decides to take over West Berlin. By cutting off supply lines, electricity and travel, he is willing to starve two million Berliners and force the U.S., Britain and France out. But the western allies, led by President Truman, decide to do the impossible: support Berlin from the air. Thus begins a turbulent and seemingly futile attempt to rescue West Berlin. Willing to do her part, Lotte lands a job as a translator at the American-run Tempelhof Airport. Even if her love is long lost, she can at least dream about Mitch helping to free Berlin...
I stash wood shavings and larger pieces in a bucket and climb the stairs to the front door of our house, when I collide with a man pushing open the door. My bucket clatters to the ground, wood spills across the tiles.
“Why don’t you watch your step,” I yell.
“My goodness, Lotte?” Mitch says, momentarily he seems to have forgotten his German. He bends low, returning the mess into the bucket.
“Hello,” I say, taking in the perfect haircut and uniform that is as usual spotless—unlike my dress and shoes, which he is no doubt seeing up close. All of a sudden, I feel as grimy as I surely look.
A small smile slides over his face, then disappears. “How is your leg?”
The bandage on my leg is nearly as gray as the rubble around us, but I have no access to clean bandages. Embarrassed, I move my leg behind the other good one. “Pretty well.”
Mitch has taken off his cap and holds it between his hands. “Maybe the doctor should take another look. I could call for him?”
“No need, thank you, I’ve caused enough trouble.”
The smile is back. “No trouble.”
“What about the anti-fraternization law… mixing with the locals?” Why can’t I stop pushing the man’s buttons?
5 out of 5 (exceptional)
WHEN THE SKIES RAINED FREEDOM is another amazing story, based on real life accounts, that tells the story too often unheard, that of the people just trying to survive.
Lotte is one of millions of Berliners trying to live in a city that has quite literally been torn apart. The conditions they live in are horrible, but they do it. They make the best of what little they have, even when things take a turn for the worse.
It wasn't hard to imagine any of it due to the high caliber of the writing. It didn't have to be described in minute detail for the message to get across - I'm thinking of what happened to Lotte's mother here. I was hoping for a happy ending for Lotte, but I am also aware that so many didn't get one.
I love this author's work. It is hard reading at times but worth every moment. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
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Annette Oppenlander is an award-winning writer, literary coach and educator. As a bestselling historical novelist, Oppenlander is known for her authentic characters and stories based on true events, coming alive in well-researched settings. Having lived in Germany the first half of her life and the second half in various parts in the U.S., Oppenlander inspires readers by illuminating story questions as relevant today as they were in the past.
Oppenlander’s bestselling true WWII story, Surviving the Fatherland, received eight nominations/awards. Uniquely, Oppenlander weaves actual historical figures and events into her plots, giving readers a flavor of true history while enjoying a good story.
Oppenlander shares her knowledge through writing workshops at colleges, libraries, festivals and schools. She also offers vivid presentations and author visits. The mother of fraternal twins and a son, she now lives with her husband and mutt Zelda in Germany.
Contact
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