Only the Brave by Danielle Steel

 Only the Brave

Book Summary

Sophia Alexander, the beautiful daughter of a famous surgeon in Berlin, has had to grow up faster than most young women. When her mother falls ill, Sophia must take charge of her younger sister, Theresa, and look after her father and the household, while also volunteering at his hospital after school. Meanwhile, Hitler’s rise to power and the violence in her very own town have Sophia concerned, but only her mother is willing to share her fears openly.

After tragedy strikes and her mother dies, Sophia becomes increasingly involved in the resistance, attending meetings of dissidents and helping however she can. Circumstances become increasingly dangerous and personal when Sophia assists her sister’s daring escape from Germany, as Theresa flees with her young husband and his family. Her father also begins to resist the regime, secretly healing those hiding from persecution, only to have his hospital burned to the ground. When he is arrested and sent to a concentration camp, Sophia is truly on her own, but more determined than ever to help.

While working as a nurse with the convent nuns, the Sisters of Mercy, Sophia continues her harrowing efforts to transport Jewish children to safety and finds herself under surveillance. As the political tensions rise and the brutal oppression continues, Sophia is undeterred, risking it all, even her own freedom, as she rises to the challenge of helping those in need—no matter the cost.

My Thoughts

Only the Brave by Danielle Steel is an emotional historical novel.  Sophia Alexander is a strong main character. I found Sophia to be inspiring and kindhearted. Her determination to help others despite the circumstances was inspiring.  Sophia’s life takes unexpected twists and turns throughout the story.  She will be tested many times throughout the war.  Sophia will need strength if she is to survive.   I can tell that the author did her research.  In the story, we get a glimpse at some of the atrocities that occurred in Germany during this time period. It is heartbreaking and unsettling that one man wreaked so much havoc on the world (baffling as to why people believed in him).  It is a reminder to not let history repeat itself.  As with all Danielle Steel books, there is repetition of details (does the author believe we will forget from one chapter to the next or, in some cases, one page to the next).  There are some sections that are unhurried (could be a tad peppier).  The story has an abrupt ending. There needed to be a better explanation for Sophia’s decision.  Only the Brave is an emotive and compelling tale that will linger with you longer after you finish it.

Only the Brave is available from Amazon* as well as other major retailers.  Danielle Steel has Resurrection releasing on June 25, Joy coming out on August 13, Triangle out on October 1 and Trial by Fire will be out on November 19 (I do not know how she does it).  On January 7, 2025, Danielle Steel has  Never Say Never.  You can follow Danielle Steel on Amazon and they will send you an email when she has a new book release.  Thank you for dropping by today.  I will return tomorrow with my thoughts on Amelia's Hope by Susan Lantz Simpson.  It is the second book in the Plain Path series.  I hope that you have cheerful day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.