A captivating and suspenseful novel by Marion Kummerow. Dark Shadows Loom Ahead is the second book in the "Escaping the Reich" trilogy, and it delivers an unforgettable reading experience. Although part of a trilogy, it can certainly be enjoyed as a standalone. However, reading the first book offers an introduction to recurring characters that will capture your heart for their heroism, kindness, courage, and resilience. This book was thoroughly enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next installment. 5 stars
I would like to thank the author, Book Whisperer and Netgalley for my free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest review.
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I have read many books by Marion Kummerow. When a new one comes out, I know I am in for a really good read. This novel is no exception. The setting is Berlin, Germany midway through World War II. It is about two sets of people, the first includes Sophie, a socialite working for the resistance. She hides Jews in her apartment and does other many things. The other set of people includes a non Jewish machinist slowing the cogs of Germany’s war machine on his own. When he is drafted, he knows he cannot serve in Hitler’s army and he deserts. Along his escape, he meets a young Jewish athlete, who is also trying to escape the Nazi regime. Each chapter goes back-and-forth between these two sets of people. It is a real page turner; sitting on the edge of your seat along the way. The story of their escapes and ultimately what happens to them makes this book very special.

A very well written book. During WW II it was necessary to use whatever help you could get. What they went through was unbwliwvablw and very well,portrayed in this book. I was glad to read in the end that this story was non fiction in a lot of instances.

these books truly come off the pages to you. it makes you feel. it make you think. it makes you sit for a few beats every now and then just to reflect and contemplate. and sometimes you have to sit so as not to get too angry at a time in our history that still does and still should bring that anger.
this book is more angst than others of the time. there is a real risk and compulsion then as a reader to read on and on. you need to be right alongside our characters as they face the dangers ahead.
because this story brings us just that, dangers ahead for Judith and Koloss who are fleeing the Nazis.
they have been helped alone the way but then tragedy strikes when the brilliant and brave woman protecting and hosting them is arrested by the enemy. frightened, they know they have to escape and run for it, there is no time to waste or wait.
the only option available to them now is Switzerland. and yes that involved crossing water. but for many known and unknown reasons this will be a heroic and heart hurling mission to the other side.
and oh i felt i was wishing and wary for them all the way across. and could feel their fear and their bravery. again, i dont know how these people did what they did in those times. i honestly cant get my head around it.
there is so much to this book. i would and could write far too much and still not do what i want to put down in some form of correlated understand of just how much this book hooked me.
this book reached out and never let go right until the end.

“Dark Shadows Looming Ahead” is a WWII historical fiction book by Marion Kummerow. This book felt like the middle part of a series - there obviously had been a story before (though Ms. Kummerow in a few sentences filled in background) and there’s obviously going to be a continuation (from the ending and the Author’s Note). This wasn’t a bad book, but what I enjoy about Ms. Kummerow’s stories is that I learn something I didn’t before about WWII … and in this case, I didn’t learn anything really new (in the previous book I learned about Operation Swedish Furniture, which was fascinating). The book moved along at a good clip, there’s no romance, and the characters are enjoyable. For me, this book is about a 3.5 star read, but I bumped it up because three stars seems too low a rating.

Another incredible book from Marion Kummerow! Her writing never fails to keep me gripped from start to finish.

This book was fast paced, and I found myself holding my breath alongside the characters in some parts. I found myself googling maps to track their journey, as I had no idea just how close freedom in Switzerland was for those persecuted by the Nazis in Germany.

I can’t wait for her next book!

5 stars out of 5 ⭐️

fantastic read and this isn't my normal genre. so much emotion felt. I will be reading more from this author

A gripping and emotionally rich read!

Dark Shadows Looming Ahead by Marion Kummerow is a beautifully written historical novel that blends fast-paced suspense with deeply human characters. I couldn’t put it down; I started reading in bed last night and finished it on a short airplane ride this morning! The writing is vivid and immersive, pulling you straight into the uncertainty and tension of wartime. I was especially drawn to the strength and complexity of the characters—they felt real and relatable, and their emotional journeys were deeply moving. Dark Shadows Looming ahead is a compelling story of resilience, hope and the quiet strength and courage that stays with you long after you finish.

It's a story about resilience, loyalty, hope and the quiet strength that ordinary people summon in extraordinary times. Marion Kummerow has written a poignant, unforgettable tale that lingers with you long after the final page. If you like historical fiction with inspirational characters, this book is for you. Dark Shadows Looming Ahead is the second in a planned trilogy; I can’t wait to read the next one!

"Dark Shadows Looming Ahead" by Marion Kummerow is a gripping thriller that masterfully blends suspense, mystery, and intrigue. The story likely follows complex characters navigating dark secrets and looming dangers, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. With its atmospheric tension and engaging plot, this book is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers and mystery novels. Kummerow's writing crafts a sense of foreboding, making it difficult to predict what will happen next. Overall, it's a thrilling ride that explores the darker aspects of human nature.

Dark Shadows Looming Ahead is another riveting WWII story from author Marion Kummerow. Having read the first of her series, Escaping the Reich, I was eager to read this second book. Even though it is part of a new series it can certainly be read as a stand alone novel since the main characters and their story is new - we only see the carryover in some of the secondary characters in the series. As in Three Children in Danger, Book 1 of the series, the main characters in this second book - Judith and Koloss, are in great danger for their lives if they are found anywhere in Germany. They need to get out of the country but to make an escape to Switzerland - the closest country not under Nazi rule - requires proper papers, money, and an escape route. How they manage from day to day as they work to gather all that they need and then meet setback after setback is nerve-wracking. Will they make it or will they ultimately be caught and turned over to the Gestapo? This is the sixth book by author Kummerow that I've read and it does what the others do - keeps you in suspense and turning the pages to see what comes next. I one hundred percent recommend this book to anyone interested in novels set in WWII Nazi Germany. I rate this as a 4.5 instead of a 5 only because I was shocked by the ending and need to wait for her next book so I can see what happens next. I received an ARC from NetGalley but all opinions are my own.

Book 2 of Escaping the Reich. Another inspiring story of sheer will and determination to overcome oppression and the will to survive. I really enjoyed the 2nd book in the series and eagerly look forward to the next book. The author has a lovely writing style and draws you into the story so you feel fully immersed.

What a fantastic story about people trying to escape the Nazi regime. Once I started, I had to continue reading this book, which is set around Lake Constance. It's a compelling story and has an unexpected ending.

A harrowing escape story for two people from Nazi Germany. I can’t wait for the next installment! I want more!

I found this novel to be an extremely interesting account of the various individuals and groups who were partisans in the occupied territories during the Nazi regime. The characters (the partisans as well as the Jews) were well defined and courageous in their actions during this perilous period. My only criticism is that I wanted to continue the story without having to wait for a sequel. I thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.

Really enjoyed this story set in WW2. Judith is an Olympic Swimmer and also happens to be Jewish so she is on the run fighting for her life trying to escape the Nazis. In hiding she meets Koloss a German army deserter. This is the story of their brave escape into Switzerland who are neutral in the war. The story is full of sadness, fear and immense courage. A really enjoyable read that I highly recommend

Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC in return for an honest review. Publication date 7 July 2025.

Book 2 of 3 - Marion Kummerow is one of my favorite WWII authors. This is the story of an Olympic swimmer on the run for her freedom. Wonderful story, I suggest reading it.

I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Absolutely amazing. Easiest 5 stars given to a fantastic book! Excited to read more by this author! Will be sharing with my Facebook group.

Received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley.
I really wanted to like this book, but it was about as average as most books regarding this time frame. Slow plotting, a flat story line. It was not much different than most stories about hiding in Nazi Germany.

I read the beginning and the end. Life was dangerous for those who opposed Hitler in Germany. Bravery and daring were required for survival. One notable difference from other books is the Olympic gold medal swimmer who’s Jewish. But the characters didn’t resonant with me. I have other books to read.

Judith Rosner used to be an Olympic Champion for Austria, but when war broke out, she became targeted overnight because of her religion.

Having gone from a celebrity to a constant target must have been awful, always scared and unsure, however she was determined to survive and that was awe worthy.

There’s also Koloss, who is a German deserter.
He ends up at Lake Constance, where Julia is hiding.

At one point, they try to escape across Lake Constance.
As patrol boats closed in. It got so heart-rending and tense.

If you love strong women, high-stakes drama, and historical fiction that hits deep—this one’s for you. 🙌📚