The Berlin Girl

I could not put this book down. It was a mix of drama, love, and all the feelings. I flew through this book, I just wanted to keep reading!

I adored The Berlin Girl. I read the whole book in one sitting because I couldn't quite bear to put it down, it had my heart in my mouth from the first chapter. Georgie is a wonderfully human character, who I think will remain in my head for a long time to come.

This was an amazing book describing WW2 events that kept me fascinated throughout the entire journey. The characters were engaging and believable. Can’t recommend it enough!

Mandy Robotham's The Berlin Girl is a story about a 1930s female newspaper reporter who accepts an assignment covering Germany during the rise of the Nazis, only to uncover the country's darker realities. While I've read several of Robotham's earlier books, I find The Berlin Girl to be markedly different despite similarities of theme. The Berlin Girl is fascinating--a true page-turner with compelling characters and engaging suspense. While I do feel that a couple of loose ends were not resolved to my satisfaction, that is the most minor complaint. I deeply enjoyed enjoyed The Berlin Girl and feel it would be a stellar addition to any library's collection of World War II-era fiction.

The ARC of this book was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #TheBerlinGirl #NetGalley.

I enjoyed this book much more than I anticipated I would. Earlier in the year I read A Woman of War by Robotham and while I liked it, I wasn’t enthralled by it. This novel however, swept me off my feet. Within the first chapter I was already desperate to know what was next for our main character, Georgie. Who, might I add, was likeable and a resilient figure to spearhead this novel. Her reasoning and actions made sense to me and I found myself growing attached to more and more as the story progressed.

The pacing of this book was fast, almost a little too fast at times. Several subplots were unfolding in the background, all of them coming to a dramatic head towards the climax of the novel. Robotham does a good job of reminding both us as readers and the characters of our humanity, just when we fell swept up in the politics of Nazi Germany, we’re grounded by a scene in which we realise that there are real people caught up in these actions. The final few chapters were an absolute whirlwind, my heart was jumping as I read the pages in desperate hopes of finding out what was going to happen. The adrenaline of reading this book was perhaps my favourite aspect, it’s been a while since a historical fiction has gotten my heart beating quite like this book did.

The only reason I’ve marked this as a four star read and not a five is the ending. Whilst I was eager to find out how it would end, it all seemed to fall into place too perfectly. There was no real conflict after the final plot point, no final twist to leave me thinking. Although, I am aware that this is a personal preference and to some this might be the perfect ending. Regardless of my thoughts on the ending, I tore through this book and I eagerly await Robotham’s next work.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham is an excellent historical fiction novel that falls under the time period of WWII. The backdrop: Berlin late 1930s. This book takes the reader through the years just as the political upheavals and instabilities are coming to a head in Germany. The two main characters: Georgie Young and Max Spencer are both reporters that have been posted to Germany to help find out what is afoot at ground level for the media. What is uncovered, is far more treacherous, diabolical, and stunning then what was thought possible.

The author does a great job creating a gripping, suspenseful, and engaging plot, and added the angle of the story from the eyes of a reporter sent into the lion's den to help create a unique twist in events that we are now all too familiar with. I enjoyed the Georgie and Max and felt that they were like able, realistic, and interesting. I enjoyed the plot, pacing, and I felt that the ending was appropriate and satisfying. It definitely kept me interested from beginning to end.

4/5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately (links added below) and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.

📖BOOK REVIEW📖⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#theberlingirl by @robothammandy @netgalley

OVERALL- time is needed for this book to reveal its secrets.

REVIEW-Berlin, 1938, and Germany is on the brink of war. When reporter Georgie Young is posted to Berlin, alongside fellow Londoner Max Spender, she knows they are entering the eye of the storm.
Arriving to a city swathed in red flags and crawling with Nazis, Georgie feels helpless, witnessing innocent people being torn from their homes. As tensions rise, she realises she and Max have to act – even if it means putting their lives on the line and in doing so the pair are pulled into a world darker than she could ever have imagined...
This book is a slow burn but that’s not a bad thing here. A lot of background and information is needed to make this story work and the book takes its time setting the scenes, allowing you to get to know the characters, their situation, locations and to understand the unrest in Hitlers Germany.
The lead character Georgie is excellent. She’s exciting, funny and really great to follow on her journey in Berlin. The story flourished under her narration as she describes the world she finds herself in. I also enjoyed the additional characters they all had great characteristics and were enjoyable.
The historical knowledge that has gone into this novel is on point and the time and effort put into the research is clearly depicted. I found it really interesting to visit, through Georgie, some of Hitlers rallies and dinner parties and seeing first hand the destruction that was reeked on Berlin during that time.
For me (and I could just be me because I’m finding this with all my books lately) it did drag a little. The main action is in the last 30% of the book and your more than ready for it to get there. In saying that it really picked up for the last 20% of the book and led to a satisfactory and enjoyable conclusion.
A thank you again for #mandyrobotham and #netgalley for allowing me to read this one early! Out 29th October 2020😊
-Emily

The Berlin Girl reveals the life of Georgina “Georgie” Young as she navigates her life as a journalist amidst the Nazi occupation in Berlin during World War II.

Georgie Young and fellow Londoner, Max Spendor are two journalists that are posted in Berlin in the middle of World War II, surrounded by the highest of Nazi’s and spies and betrayals. Through the adventures of Georgie and Max getting material for the news of Berlin, we slowly uncover the truths behind Nazi’s and Hitler’s reign.

I rated The Berlin Girl five stars, absolutely loving the way this book made me feel intrigued and pulled me in continuously. I felt as if I were in the story as well, alongside Georgie and Max as they discovered what was really happening to the Jewish people that resided in Germany and their discovery of the people that they thought they knew well.

I loved the way that even though Georgie and Max both came from London and would most likely have to work with each other in Berlin, they didn’t immediately become friends, it had taken them time to discover the truths about each other before they finally opened up to each other more about themselves personally and about work. They both care deeply about spreading the word about what is happening in Germany and that hopefully, through the articles that they write, people can realize the brutal occurrences that were happening in Berlin where they were.

They way they helped multiple people throughout the book and witnessed so many savage beatings toward the Jewish residents of Berlin made the story more intense because while you read it, you are expecting all these actions yet when you reach it, you feel completely shocked by the events.

I thoroughly enjoyed the development of Georgie as she became more determined to prove that she can be a good journalist while also being a woman. The difficulties she had to endure while being a female journalist in Berlin in order to get information for the articles she had to write were something that females around the world had to go through but the way Georgie fought through it and was set on getting her information and leads to write the best article showed the way she powered through the stereotypes of a female worker.

Georgie was a powerful main character and I loved the way Max, while in the beginning was not so understanding of Georgie being a female journalist, came to terms with her power and future influence of the way she worked. Both of them worked well together and slowly became comfortable with each other and I loved their developments as characters and towards each other. Their relationship shined throughout this book and I loved that while they cared for each other deeply, they were understanding toward each other.

I wholly enjoyed reading The Berlin Girl, all the detail behind the history and behind each character was so well developed and created. The thoughtful descriptions and aspects throughout this book made it more intense and I enjoyed learning more about World War II and the Nazi occupation and the toll it took on history.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A big thank you to NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this title in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely loved The Berlin Girl. Like with The German Midwife and The Secret Messenger, Mandy Robotham did not disappoint. I personally feel that this is her strongest work yet.

The book follows up and coming journalist Georgie (Georgina) Young, who goes by the pen name of George Young, in her first foreign affairs posting in pre-WW2 Berlin. Along the way, she meets a cast of characters that will deeply impact her life and the world that she’s familiar with.

I am thoroughly content that this book was given an authentic perspective; a foreign female press correspondent situated within the Nazi regime. In addition, I appreciate all the detail that went in to describing not only the physical attributes of Germany at the time, but also the mood, culture, and environment. In doing so, I was able to feel the shift towards the impending war along with all of the characters.

What I adored most about the book was the personalities and spirit that all of the characters were given. They were all very distinct and pulled me into the story even more. I was especially pleased that Georgie was portrayed as such a relatable heroine. She was a strong, brave, and loyal friend and colleague who had to navigate though moral dilemmas of right and wrong, amid the possibilities of fierce consequences.

While the story is predominantly historical fiction, there are also elements of mystery, suspense, and romance. I thought all aspects were perfectly balanced and kept me turning the pages, wanting to know more. While I’m sad the book ended, I’m very happy with how it concluded. The epilogue was brilliant and gave the upmost closure to Georgie’s experiences. I highly recommend this book to all readers and will be buying a physical copy to enjoy again upon its publication.

Georgie Young is a British woman being sent to be a foreign correspondent in Berlin in 1938. Not only does her new posting involve breaking in to the good old boys club of male journalists it involves learning how to survive in pre WW2 Berlin. Constantly looking over her shoulder, trying to convince the English people of the horrors that she is seeing in Germany when they are vocal about not really wanting to know, and worrying about her Jewish friend and his family create an experience that is very high stress. Add to that the fact that Georgie attempts to date a Nazi officer to get information. This book is a beautifully done glimpse in to a changing Berlin, and is one of the best historic fictions set in this era that I've had the pleasure to read.

I love Mandy Robotham (Favorite historical fiction author by far!!) and was so excited to read an ARC by NetGalley. The Berlin Girl was absolutely amazing! I love when books are told from more than one character’s perspective and the author did a great job of doing that. This book is an emotional read as I loved the characters- especially the strong female lead. One of the best historical fiction books I’ve ever read!

What an amazing book. The format of the book is a nice touch, including the Postcards from Berlin, which gives the true news instead of the doctored news that the papers actually printed. I have read a large amount of WWII books this year and this one found a way to be unique, telling the story of a female news reporter in Berlin. The characters were wonderful and I could easily picture them in the clothes from the 30,s, everyone smoking like a chimney and tossing back drinks like water. It was an era that came to a halt quickly with the start of the war. The author gave us what felt like an inside story, one that many ignored as it was reporters that tried to alert the governments to the atrocities taking place under Hitlers rule. I felt so much anger and anguish as I read this book and that is the sign of a great writer, telling a story that so many have heard about and keeping it fresh and real. The end of the book seemed to be a bit quick but I understand the author needed to find a spot to stop without it feeling like we had been deserted. I have read all of Mandy Robotham’s books and each has been wonderful. If you have never given her books a try, please do.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins, Avon Publishers and Ellie Pitcher for allowing me to read this amazing book.

I absolutely LOVED this book!

Georgie was such a fierce, I compromising and passionate main character. I love how her and Max’s relationship began as such a strong friendship and developed into something much stronger.

Georgie’s connection to Rubin and the Amsel family was so beautiful and human. I enjoyed their relationship and how their story came to a beautiful end.

Mandy Robotham beautifully writes the story of Georgie’s life as a foreign correspondent in Berlin during the war.

5 stars. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!

**I received a complimentary copy of <i>The Berlin Girl</i> by Mandy Robotham. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**

I requested a copy of this novel because I had read The Secret Messenger by Mandy Robotham and really enjoyed it. This book did not disappoint. It gave a different perspective of WW2 than other books I've read and I've read a lot! I found it really interesting to see that the Foreign Press was trying to get out stories that were more truthful in the way things were in Germany at this time, but none of the papers they were affiliated with would actually publish them. This has always been something I wondered about so I enjoyed seeing how this played out. I also liked how this book focused mainly on the years prior to the war actually starting. I don't think we always think of this time as being one of conflict. As well, I liked that it talked about less common Nazi concentration camps than ones normally written about in WW2 novels.

This book was similar to The Secret Messenger with its camaraderie between the reporters and how they were trying to help others during the war, often risking their life to do so. I like that all the ends were tied up neatly with the news stories at the end of the novel. I hate books that leave you wondering.

The atrocities that happened during WWII has been brought into the light of day. In The Berlin Girl, Mandy Robotham wanted to focus on the time leading up to the beginning of WWII. The journalist stationed in Berlin in the 1930s saw what was happened and repeatedly warned newspapers. This is their story. Robotham focuses on two, Max and Georgie, how they moved among some of the Natzis to learn the truth. The story builds and gets better as it progresses.

The Berlin Girl also tells the story of a Ruben, a Jewish man who was a driver and messenger for Georgie. In telling his story, the reader can feel the impact Hitler's hatred of the Jews had on this family. This is a work of fiction. All the characters are imaginary, but they seemed very real and human in the telling.

I was able to read this book on NetGalley. It is scheduled to be released October 29, 2020.

New war correspondent, Georgina Young, arrives in Berlin prior to the start of the war and chronicles for us the incidents leading up to the war. Under the name of George Young, we follow Georgie and her fellow press corps members as events unfold and she and fellow journalist Max Spender ultimately get involved in trying to uncover secrets.

I found the story compelling as a moving picture of life in Berlin and the horrors of the Nazi regime getting closer to war. While listed as historic fiction, there was also a layer of suspense and intrigue which I really enjoyed. The characters were well developed and the plot had twists and turns that held my interest. The ending was a bit too predictable for me and the epilogue was an interesting way to put closure to a lot of characters.

Thanks to netgalley for letting me read and review the Berlin Girl.

WWII-based Historical Fiction has become a genre that I read pretty frequently - more than likely I'm reading at least 2 per month. The Berlin Girl took a perspective on the time period leading up to the war, 1938-1939, that I have yet to read - that of the foreign press in Berlin.

Georgie is a British journalist assigned to report from Berlin beginning in 1938. As she settles into the city, she befriends other members of the foreign press and begins reporting on her impressions of what is going on in and around Germany.

This story really heats up alongside the events of the times - her contacts that are Jewish grow more and more afraid of what will happen to them, members of the press have to watch their backs as they report on what is going on, and Georgie debates how far she will go to help those she cares about and get the insider info she needs to report on the terrors she is seeing.

To put in plainly, I absolutely loved this story! To see these events unfolding from the perspective of the foreign press within Berlin, and to see the lengths that these reporters will go to to reveal the reality of what is happening, leads to a thrilling read. Georgie is brave and genuine, and I came to love the pack of reporters she meets right along with her.

As the story concludes, Georgie laments that there are things she started that she regrets leaving unfinished. And it's true - there are story lines that never come to a conclusion within this book, but I believe the purpose is to show that she can't single handedly fix every problem. I did not mind that some of these were left open-ended, as the book concludes at the start of the war, so as a reader I am aware that there is plenty more to come.

I highly recommend this read - thank you to #netgalley and Avon Books for this ARC!

Wow! This book is beyond excellent! It needs to be turned into a movie or mini series!

Georgie Young is on the outside looking in. A young journalist from London is dispatched to Berlin in 1938. Days Eager to make a name for and prove herself, she arrives with her eyes wide open. What she sees is a lively town, full of life and full of boots...ready to fall in line with Hitler. Things are already falling apart for the German Jews and Georgie wants to find a way to tell there story so the rest of the world can see what’s really happening. With the help of a diverse group of international reporters, they work to find a way around the German propaganda and report the truth and hope someone is listening. Along the way, the group befriends a Jewish family and work together help them get to safety. The group uncovers a lesser known concentration camp and gets tangled up with a Nazi officer. All Georgie wants to do is tell someone’s story and she’s willing to put her life on the line for those she cares about and for what it right.

This story will get you from the get go. You’ll love the friendly banter of the journalists. You’ll admire the heroism of the main characters. You’ll be on the edge of your seat when the Gestapo comes knocking at the door. It’s a fresh perspective of WWII, through the eyes of a young, female, English journalist in a Berlin on the brink of war. A must read for WWII fans.

This was such a good read. I have read another one by this author, The German Midwife, that I enjoyed as well. Georgie Young is a British news correspondent who is working in Berlin, which is on the brink of war. She puts her life at risk several times to capture the lives of those in Berlin who are suffering and being treated unjustly. Max Spender is London reporter who is working alongside her. This story covers their trials and tribulations as they learn about Hitler and his unjust treatment of the Jews. Parts of the book I had to research to get a complete grasp on what was going on. I found the book sad at times but also very relevant and well told. I would highly recommend this one. Thanks so much to NetGalley for an ARC copy of this book.

This book has a lot of relevance to today, and should be read by anyone who wonders how people can wake up one day and think, 'how did we get here?' Set in late 1930s Berlin, it follows a greenhorn journalist through her journey to pre-war Berlin. She has encounters with many different families and types of people, from all sides, and quickly hardens up to the reality of what it really going on around her. Written with such authenticity that it wonders me if the author didn't have some first-hand accounts to base the story on.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: 29th October, 2020

I want to thank NetGalley and Avon Books UK for providing me the ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.

The story takes place in the year 1938 in Berlin. Our protagonist Georgie Young is a reporter who gets her posting in Berlin. In a job overly crowded with male colleagues, Georgie is determined to prove her worth by this project. Max Spender, another reporter from London joins Georgie in the flight to Berlin. Though they did not start on a good note, eventually they make peace and help each other. Arriving in a city swathed in red flags and crawling with Nazis, Georgie feels helpless, witnessing innocent people being torn from their homes. As tension rises, she realizes she and Max have to act- even if it means putting their lives on the line.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham takes you to the then German and plays with your emotion. The truth has been spoken here without making any drama. The title as well as the cover grabs your attention then and there. Once you get into the book, there is no way of returning.

The only drawback you will face while reading the book is that it takes an ample amount of time to build up the environment. The main story is not started until you finish almost one-third of the book. Though I get that in these kinds of stories, it is very necessary to set the background accordingly, it was too making me impatient.

Coming to the points I loved about the book are:
1) The storyline and the character development part was very nice.
2) Two stories were joined together and their progression makes you hooked to the story
3) The way Georgie came out as a strong character with Max by her side has my heart
4) The bitterness of truth is hard to digest but the author has written the story with utmost honesty that is bound to reach your heart.
I would definitely recommend the book to everyone who loves a concrete storyline.

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of Robotham’s, The Berlin Girl, in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this story! Robotham did a wonderful job in placing readers in 1938-9 Berlin. Her world-building showed a city that on the one hand was opulent, orderly, and still evidenced a bit of the joie de vivre Georgie had observed only a couple of years earlier during the Olympics. While on the other hand, Berlin (and Germany as a whole) was a place of surmounting fear, censorship, and violence. Throughout, the reader can see this paradox.

Robotham’s writing style is beautiful, which gives the story a nice literary quality. Her descriptions and nuanced ways in describing the physical characteristics, interactions, and thoughts of her characters are creative and superbly done.

And speaking of the characters, they were well-developed, with my favorite being Georgie. She’s caring, hard-working, and perceptive to the world around her. Georgie’s insecurities are naturally always with her, but she doesn’t allow them to take over when she has a mission to accomplish. Her interactions with the other characters are very sincere and relatable. I also appreciated how Robotham created a love story between Georgie and Max that was built on friendship, a growing mutual respect, and professional camaraderie. I would’ve enjoyed just a smidgeon of more romance between them—just a little ;-).

So here is why I gave The Berlin Girl 4 stars as opposed to 5: the ending (inclusive of the epilogue). It was predictable, and the pacing was too fast (almost hurried), which didn’t allow for me to transition between the scenes as I would’ve wanted to. Sometimes I had to reread a few parts to make sure that I followed how the plot unfolded. Aspects of the final getaway seemed too “smooth”. For instance, how could Georgie steal the car of a Gestapo member and speed past a guarded checkpoint without even one gun shot being fired at her and Max? The car chasing them getting a flat tire? Okay, I’ll accept that. And then, the convenience of Georgie and Max (while they’re lost) coming across a farmhouse where they find a couple who just so happens to help them out in time seemed too lucky.

This was the first Robotham novel I’ve read, and I’m interested in reading more stories by her. Loved it :-).

Note: Just a minor editorial note I’d like to share, since this is an ARC: I believe the use of the anatomical term pupil(s) has, at times throughout the novel, been confused with the term, iris.

Thank you again Netgalley.

With thanks to netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest review.
My kind of book this historically captivating story was truly wonderful warm and so engaging wonderful characters and an excellent plot I can highly recommend.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham is one of the most frightening stories that I have ever read. At one point it just. seemed to frightening and realistic for me to continue. The story takes place in Germany right before WW 2..It centers around a group of news reporters from England who are covering the Nazis imediately before the war.

Excellent story of a courageous American journalist stationed in Berlin before as as WWIi begins. A tough cookie with a huge heart embarks on helping a Jewish friends while risking her own life. So much of this story is based on real people who fought tooth and nail to get the true out to their readers. Well researched and I liked the insider perspective of how the Nazi’s ran their propaganda program. Also there were many unbelievable terrifying moments! By the Author of The German Wife. I’d like to thank Net galley and Harper Collins Publishers for an advance copy of this book for an honest review.

I was excited to read this new novel by Mandy Robotham having enjoyed her previous novels. Meet Georgie and Max, 2 reporters who having arrived in Berlin are drawn in to the dark world of the times in 1938.
The relationship of the pair and the characters come alive as you read the book.
Lots of tension and danger involved.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the advance copy
#TheBerlinGirl

This book is set in the summer of 1938 In Berlin. Germany is on the edge of war. The book is about a reporter named Georgie Young that is posted in Berlin close by Max Spender who is from London. They both know that this posting is very important and dangerous.

When arriving in Berlin Georgie sees the city is very dangerous and crawling with Nazis. She sees early on people getting taken out of there houses and how things escalate very quickly. She realizes that she and Max have to do something about this and do it quickly. Even is they put themselves at risk of danger.

Things get even darker if possible when Georgie does some research on Hitler's Germany.

I would like to give thanks to Netgalley, Mandy Robotham and Avon Books UK for giving me the chance to read and review this book.#TheBerlinGirl #NetGalley.

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the setting and darkness of it. By the end of the first chapter I was hooked I couldn't stop reading. I really like the character, Georgie. I loved how there were female characters where there wouldn't be in real life. being a female reporter in 1938 wasn't a normal thing. Georgie was the right character for the job. I really liked the relationship between Georgie and Max. The book was very well written. I love the details and how some of the events are true life.

I very much recommend this book to people that like General Fiction (Adult) | Historical Fiction | Literary Fiction.

This novel is about Georgie Young, a British reporter who is posted in Berlin with fellow reporter Max Spender. The novel takes place in 1938 Berlin. It's an excellent historical fiction novel. I enjAuthiroyed this book very much and I intend to read more books by the Author.

Thanks, Netgalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading The Berlin Girl, Georgie heads to Berlin just before the start of World War II as a journalist. We get to follow her story and other journalists as the war starts,
Historical Fiction is one of my favorite categories to read, I also enjoy mystery and thrillers. The Berlin Girl gave me my historical fiction and some mystery parts when Georgie and another journalist begin trying to find and uncover secrets.

Novel is about Georgie who is a reporter from London who is sent to Berlin in 1939 for the paper she works for. It follows the events that Georgie reports on for a year. I enjoyed the story and found some new information about Hitler at that time. Ending was exciting and I am thankful to NetGalley and Mandy Robotham for letting me preview this book. I will be looking for more books by Mandy Robotham.

A lovely book with a great story line and strong characters that bring the book together,i can highly recommend this to readers.5*

Fascinating insight into Berlin just before the outbreak of world war 2. Very engaging characters but I felt there was not much of a plot but an interesting story.. very emotional ending

I like knowing that there were a number of women in journalism at a time when women's roles were narrowly definied. It's difficult to imagine what a daring step Georgie tookembarking on her assignment to Berlin. The tension and danger that existed in every day life seems unbearable from a distance of more than 80 years. With the benefit of hindsight, it seems impossible that so many reporters and foreign diplomats were trying to tell the world outside of Germany about Hitler's atrocities that were witnessedstory on a regular basis. The other world leaders were reluctant to act and the repercusions were deadly.

Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy.

A totally engrossing story set at the beginning of the Second World War. Very different from other war books in that it is from the viewpoint of the Press. Hoe awful life must have been for those living under the eye of the SS and the fear they must have felt. These poor, innocent people despised and persecuted. I loved the characters in this story. George - such a strong and ultimately courageous reporter and Press colleagues Rob & Max.
This story had me so engrossed I had that rare feeling of wanting to peep at the end to see if all went well or would break my heart. I resisted and just read the book as quickly as I could to reach that point. I was so entranced by this story.
The epilogue truly wrapped it up and brought it to a heartwarming yet bittersweet conclusion.

Wow, such a marvellous story of courage and bravery. I was completely enthralled and captivated by the style of the writing. Really wonderful - a great book.

Thank you net galley for the advance reader copy of this novel. Wow was this another amazing WWII historical fiction novel by this author. I loved every thing about this book from the characters, setting, and how it ended. Georgie is so full of spunk and is ready to take on the world smashing barriers before her. I love Max who tries to be tough but has a soft heart. I love how the author makes the press pack in Berlin a family. I am so glad little newspaper snippets wrapped up each character. Well written and researched. A cross between a spy novel thriller and pull at your heart strings tale. I fully recommend this one and can't wait for more!!

I was excited to read The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham as I had previously read, A Woman of War and had thoroughly enjoyed it. So, when I was asked to review this one, I jumped at the possibility!

The story centers around Georgina (Georgie/George) Young, a journalist for a newspaper set in her native England and the chance for her to gain traction and prove her reporting capabilities in Berlin at the onset of WWII. Hitler has gained quite a name for himself already and Georgie finds herself back in a city that doesn’t seem to be quite what she remembers from before. She encounters a prior Jewish man, Rubin that was her driver from a previous visit to Berlin to aid in the logistics of collecting information for stories, and it’s here where she really starts to see firsthand what the “New Germany” entails as things start to fall apart for Rubin and his family. The pursuance of a news story quickly begins to force Georgie to make life or death decisions for herself and for her friends.

Ms Robotham has done it again, but in this tale it weaves one that I’ve not quite encountered before with WWII historical fiction. The story of a female reporter, especially in late 30’s in pre-war torn Berlin, was a unique and powerful story that grasped my interest from the beginning. The writing was inventive, thoroughly researched, and captivating. I was really impressed with all of the threads at work between all of the characters, especially when they all seemed to come together in the tapestry of the story. Small details in one chapter were brought forth in another in a delightfully and sometimes terrifying way, making you wonder who was really who they said they were. I thoroughly enjoyed The Berlin Girl and look forward to more from the author.

If you love strong female characters, WWII historical fiction, and the telling of both from unique perspectives, you will not be disappointed!

Thank you to Harper Collins Publishing for an adcanced eARC of "The Berlin Girl" in exchange for an honest review. #TheBerlinGirl #NetGalley.

Perfect for fans of Kirsten Hannah's "The Nightengale", this book is different than most historical fiction based around WW2 in that it is set in Berlin in 1938 prior to the war. We witness through Georgie Young, who is a newspaper reporter for the Daily Chronicle in London, the increased power of the ruling Nazi party. Georgie, along with her colleague Max Spender of the Daily Telegraph see first hand the treatment of their Jewish friends and suspect all is not what it appears at nearby concentration camp Sachsenhausen.

I really enjoyed this book. It drew me into the story and I cared about the characters and what became of them .
One minor quibble however is that I felt it took a little too long to built up the main story, which was over in a quicker than expected and seemed rushed. Could be perhaps that I did not want it to end. ?

This is a heart-wrenching story of a young woman, an English reporter, who puts herself in the line of fire as the world is about to be forever changed. Germany is on the brink of war. The story is set in Berlin 1938, at the height of summer and last till early Fall 1939.

After witnessing innocent people being torn from their home, Goergie Young along with her colleague, Max Spencer, needed to do something. As they dug deeper they uncovered the truth about Hitler’s Germany and through their eyes we see a world swathed in red flags and crawling with Nazis.

I was totally taken by this story; I simply couldn’t put it aside. Within the opening pages I was hooked and stayed eager to know what was in store for Goergie as she navigated her journalistic life during the Nazi occupation. Reporter’s work was not only censured by the Reich but the home office took great care not to offend the Germans by publishing what they thought were not based on fact reports; they wanted photos as proof before publishing anything, in fact Georgie and Max were also censured at home. Leaving the rest of the world oblivious to what really was going on.

There is a lot going on beyond the copious amounts of booze, smoking and yes strudel as Georgie bonded with her fellow journalists. She soon made friends with Sam at the British Embassy while she was involved with a German officer, but of course, this relationship eventually put her in extreme danger and the story behind is more than captivating. My favourite secondary character was Rubin a Jewish man who drove Georgie around the city till he no longer was permitted. The voices were essentially of Goergie but from time to time Rubin took center stage as he got more involved. By the end, along with his family, Goergie helped him escape Germany. I could continue but I rather you read this novel for yourself: discovering Ms. Robotham vision of events is what makes this novel a must read.

This historical novel is well-written and has sympathetic and likeable characters and we have quite a few to follow. Being during this difficult period in time the story plays with our emotions: although a truth spoken without drama. We have some elements of mystery, suspense and romance all perfectly balanced. This novel wraps up with a brilliant epilogue: closure for all....

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Avon Books UK via Netgalleys the opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book was so hard to put down! Every chapter, every page had me wanting to know more. It was suspenseful and engaging and really left an impression on me. Mandy Robotham is a wonderful storyteller and I enjoy all of her books. The characters in this book are likeable and you become invested in their story and relationships.

Many thanks to Avon and publisher Harper Collins via Netgalley for my honest opinion and review of this uncorrected advanced reading proof copy of The Berlin Girl.

The author has created a fabulous read of intrigue, murder and suspense at the onset of World War II, Germany.

The Summer Media Ball and young Chronicle journalist Georgie sits at the bar in a borrowed dress and poorly fitting shoes nursing a Martini when a smug voice behind her says "sitting this one out"? Georgie does a grimace and replies that her shoes are causing her some problems and so dancing is not an option. A benign condescending questioning by the young man continues until Georgie hits him with the fact that she is working with one of Fleet Street's most prominent foreign journalists to which the young man tries to outdo her and throws in a little male chauvinism for luck. Little do the both know at this stage that in a very short time they will be plunged together into the intrigue and danger of the Nazi war machine, Hitler and the mass hysteria of the populace of Germany.

It is also the beginning of the brutalisation of Jewish citizens which takes on a personal involvement, Georgie's previous contact, Rubin Amsel who will again become a driver for her in Berlin. Rubin and his wife Sara are in a desperate state, the Gestapo have started to remove the "imperfects". The couple are caring for Sara's brother, Elias who through an accident is disabled. The only way is to create a room in the ceiling although in the end this proves to be futile.

Georgie's position as a journalist is pretty unique for the times but she has already done the hard yards and combined with her German language knowledge has been assigned to the Foreign Press Corps gig in Berlin. Arriving at the airport Georgie is dismayed to run into the same young man from the Media Ball who alerts her to the fact that he is waiting for a fellow journalist, George Young from the Chronicle that he has to pair up with. Standing tall and with courage she lets him know that in actual fact she is George (ie/ina) Young. A little tit-for-tat conversation happens, Georgie silencing Max Spender with her German language skills.

Arriving in Germany and into Berlin, Georgie views a completely different city to the one of her previous posting, the Olympics. The gloss has gone replaced with the full sway of Nazi propaganda. Max and her leave the taxi at Hotel Adlon where many of the fellow foreign journalists are holding up the bar. Both enquire about their individual contacts that are supposed to partner them only to be informed that each have their own extreme personal issues for which Georgie and Max have no choice but to accept that they are on their own. Paul Adamson makes a brief appearance for Georgie but it's obvious that he is preoccupied and leaves her to her own devices. Further into the read Paul Adamson is killed and it seems that his death is due to his investigations he was working on.

Bruno Bauer manages the Foreign Press Corps with daily briefings and propaganda. Georgie puts forward an idea that she wishes to pursue and after some reluctance this is granted and for which Rubin is grateful to become her driver particularly now that many occupations are prohibited for Jews to practice, his financial situation for him and his family is dire.

Colourfully evolving, the read has many dimensions, beyond the copious amounts of strudel, booze and smoking, Georgie's extraordinary new flatmates, her fellow journalists that she bonds well with and the sometimes obnoxious behaviour of Max along with the support of Sam from the British Embassy Georgie finds her feet and with the help of a spy delves into some of the secrets of Nazi operations. The German war machine is moving quickly while those in each respective reporter's country seem to be oblivious to unfolding events, everyone is on tenterhooks. Georgie becomes aware immediately of the cruelty to Jews and she observes the Kristallnacht. Her involvement with German officer, Kasper Vortsch, puts her into extreme danger when he discovers the truth about her. Elias is taken away, nobody knows where he is.

With the situation rapidly declining Rubin and Sara reluctantly approach Georgie to assist them to have their children travel to England. The only way is through Sam but the Embassy is already besieged by desperate people trying to leave Germany. It takes some time but eventually the children travel to England.

Max is arrested by the Gestapo and it's only by accident that Georgie discovers his passport and realises that Max is not going to be deported but that the Gestapo have other plans for him. She puts her own plan of action into place and with some good acting skills Max and her with the Gestapo hot on their heels make their escape from Germany and fly to Paris.

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the arc of The Berlin Girl.

If you enjoyed the book The German midwife then you'll love this book or if you love historical fiction this is for you, this was a mesmerising 4 star read, this follows Berlin in the year 1938, Georgie whom is a reporter/journalist is sent out to Berlin, alongside colleauge Max from London, when they got there they saw lots of Nazis and red flags, Georgie feels emotional and helpless as they witness some horrifying things like familes being ripped apart from their own homes and families. As she starts to do some research deeper into Nazi Germany or Hitler's Germany it ends up more darker than what they intended and realised.

this was written beautifully and it had me hooked from start to finish i loved it so much well done to the author for such a compelling and heart wrenching and emotional book- highly highly recommend.

4 STARS!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Having read the authors previous books I was anticipating another fantastic historical fiction read and I wasn't disappointed at all. I always get swept away by Mandy Rowbotham’s storytelling and characters. Our lead, Georgie, is gutsy and very aware of her abilities. She hasn’t and doesn’t let anything or anyone stand in her way and I admire that, even though in gets her in some precarious positions! The people she meets, the relationships she establishes during her time in Berlin will change her life and vice-versa.
A fast paced read, it will have you intrigued, appalled and championing the innocents. It has heart and emotion. I often wonder what happens after ‘The End’ so the inclusion of the epilogue here really completes the journey for us.
Highly recommended.

“...it was divine, the pastry light and airy. Unlike the mood in Berlin.” In the year before the German invasion of Poland, Georgie Young is dispatched to Berlin as a news correspondent. In that year, she sees a city on the outbrink of war, brimming with anger, hate, and the unquenchable desire for power. After linking up with other members of the foreign press, she begins to uncover some of the atrocities happening in Germany and there begins her endeavor to put a spotlight on what the world needs to see. This book is a very fast and exciting read. It is packed with action, rich with history, whilst incorporating the eternal bonds of love, loyalty and friendship. This book is a captivating story for lovers of historical fiction with a spotlight on the particular time period immediately preceding the Second World War.

I found the story quite compelling reading. I havent read a world war II book before that is actually set right before the war and I found that to be what made me want to read the book in the first place. Even though this book is categorised as historical fiction, there was also an element of suspense which I really enjoyed.
Unfortunately, for me, the ending was a bit too predictable and it all fell into place 'too easily'.
I found epilogue was very different from other books and I really enjoyed it, it is an interesting way to put closure to a lot of characters and the story.

I have really enjoyed this second book by this author
Totally engrossed from start to finish
It was emotional in places
Definitely worth a 5 star

The Berlin Girl was so good and I wanted more of Georgie's story. She was the perfectly imperfect protagonist that had such a strong relatability even though she lived a lifetime ago. The realism that was created in the imagery of Kristallnacht made me feel like I was there witnessing the heartbreaking event. I highly recommend The Berlin Girl

Mandy Robotham writes a wonderful historical fiction novel The Berlin Girl about a female reporter in 1938 in Berlin. Georgina (Georgie) Young writes for the London based paper the Chronicle, she is part of the foreign press reporting the events happening in Berlin and news about Adolf Hitler. Robotham introduces us to another writer Max Spender who writes for the Telegraph. We watch their story grow as the story of war grows. This novel is heart wrenching, suspenseful and intriguing.

The epilogue was a fascinating way to put closure to the characters. I look forward to reading more of Robotham’s books.

Thank you #netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC of the Berlin Girl.

This story is presented from a different view of WWII...the reporter's point of view, who is a woman. I couldn't put the book down pretty much from start to finish. The descriptions of Berlin and the surroundings were vivid enough to put me right there with Georgie & Max who are the main characters. The only fault that I had was with the ending. I felt that it was somewhat rushed and very neatly tied up in a bow.

Reviewed from an uncorrected proof copy provided by Avon Books UK via Netgalley for an honest review
Book: The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham
Published: 29 October 2020
Genre: General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
My Rating: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

This is the third book by Mandy Robotham that I have read and it’s fantastic!

Georgina (Georgie) Young is a woman in a man’s world, determined to show everyone that she can do it too. We are taken to Berlin, Germany, in 1938 where Georgie is a reporter sent to Berlin to report under the name George Young for the London based newspaper, the Chronicle. She is part of the foreign press and needs to report about the events happening in Berlin, news about the Führer, Adolf Hitler. What he does, what he plans and anything about the Reich. When Georgie arrives in Berlin, the streets are decorated with Nazi insignia and an ombre feeling of domination vibrated through the air.

Before going to Berlin Georgie sits at a bar in the London Ritz feeling awkward and willing the Summer Media Ball to be over. A glamorous event for correspondents, reporters, photographers and editors. While watching everyone enjoying themselves, a man comes up to Georgie and starts making small talk. She later finds out he is a reporter for the Telegraph. After a dismissal she puts the man out of her mind, never to see him again. Or so she thought.

After a few weeks, Georgie finds herself on a plane to Berlin, alongside the reporter from the Telegraph known as Max Spender. They were assigned to Berlin, together. Having a rocky start from the get-go, Georgie and Max’s relationship as fellow reporters are moulded by the horrendous events and scenes they witness. Soon realising that the Berlin she visited in 1936 to report about the Olympics has been replaced by a city filled with Nazi propaganda, fear and a hatred for Jews. Both Georgie and Max report to their different newspapers, but as they convene with the press pack at the Adlon, they soon discover the dark and sinister ongoing’s in Berlin. When the names of Joseph Goebbels, Heinrich Himmler, Rudolf Hess, Frederik Graf and Adolf Hitler are mentioned, a storm is coming.

With the sudden and mysterious death of a fellow reporter, Paul Adamson, and rumours about a camp (Sachsenhausen) where Jews were taken, proving to be true, Georgie and Max team up together to help a Jewish family, Rubin and Sara Amsel with their 2 children to escape the claws of the Nazis.

What I liked about the book was that the story has a good flow to it. The author has the ability to let the trauma, sadness and pain jump off the pages and straight into the reader’s heart. It’s not the feeling of ‘I feel what the character is feeling’. It is more than that. The author sits us down in the living room of Rubin and Sara Amsel when Georgie and Max arrive there to support them after they had to send their 2 children to England for safety. The author sits us down with Georgie, Max and Rubin when he reads the devastating letters from his brother-in-law Elias, that is held in the camp Sachsenhausen.

My favourite character is the main character, Georgie Young. She doesn’t give up in a time of crisis and pain, even when being emotionally overwhelmed at times. Instead, she uses it to fuel the fire inside of her to seek justice for the people that are treated unfairly. The characters felt real and believable. This book had me on the edge of my seat and kept me guessing.

Overall the book was fantastic, but I felt the ending happened too quickly. From 1946 to 1994 in just a few pages. But aside from that, I enjoyed the story and can’t wait for Mandy Robotham’s next work. She makes historical fiction enjoyable and never disappoints. This piece of historical fiction made me realise that that which causes us pain can be used to achieve goodness, even in the long run.

I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys historical fiction.

If you’ve enjoyed The Tattooist of Auschwitz or Cilka’s Journey by Heather Morris, you will certainly love this book!

Add The Berlin Girl to your Goodreads list.

Other books by Mandy Robotham
The German Midwife
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43011720.The_German_Midwife

The Secret Messenger
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52762957.The_Secret_Messenger

Thank you to Avon Books UK and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book.

This review is also posted on my blog.

Georgie Young is a reporter that is posted to Berlin pre World War 2. She quickly becomes immersed in the city of Berlin as Hitler becomes a force to be reckoned with and not in a good way as history proves.

Georgie is my hero: she made me laugh, she made me cry, I cheered her on and I was frightened for her. Sometimes all at the same time !

Her bravery was outstanding as was all the others that did their best to help the Jewish, the politcal prisoners and many others to hopefully survive.

Georgie gets a lot of help from fellow journalists including Max Spencer.

It is quite the journey they takes us on; one that will stay with me for a long time.

Thanks to NetGalley, Avon Books UK, Avon for a great read.

As a historical fiction fan, I have read many books about WWII. This one was refreshing in the sense that the characters were all journalists reporting from Berlin. It was interesting to see their frustration at seeing what was happening around them yet their HQs were not publishing much without photographs and nothing was been done to stop the Reich. I really enjoyed the snippets of their articles after they leave Berlin. That was a really nice touch!

Thanks NetGalley, Mandy Robotham, and HarperCollins Publishing for the ARC!

This ARC of The Berlin Girl was provided by Avon and publisher Harper Collins via Netgalley for my honest opinion and review of this uncorrected proof copy.

Georgie Young is a young women trailblazier in the field as a war correspond in Berlin in the late 1930s. Along with her fellow friends and press corp members, Georgie chronicles her time in Nazi Germany before the start of WWII. Georgie and fellow correspondent, Max, uncover Nazi secrets that threatens their lives under Nazi rule.

I enjoyed Georgie's perspective in this historical fiction novel, and I love a happy endning. Will be recommending this book to by book club!

Thank you to net galley for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed the Berlin Girl, as I enjoy historical fiction set during WW2 but this was different from the start since the main character was a member of the foreign press in Berlin during 1938-1939. It was also interesting to have the character experience Berlin during the Olympic Games as well and being able to compare and contrast. I enjoyed the twists and turns of the plot and I enjoyed seeing how the characters ended up in the end in the epilogue, some may feel that the ending was too pat but I think it was nice to have these characters end up ok after it all. Hope you pick up this book for an entertaining read!

What a story! I couldn’t put this new offering from Mandy Robotham down. I’m a big fan of historical fiction and this was an enthralling read. The story is set in the lead up to WWII in Berlin - Georgie (George) Young is sent to Berlin by the British ‘Chronicle’ as a fresh young female journalist as part of the Foreign Press Corp. Georgie is accompanied on her trip by Max Spender journalist for the Daily Telegraph.
The Nazi regime is in full force and Georgie is determined to let the British public know what is happening in Germany through her ‘Postcards from Berlin’; despite the censorship and control of the press by the Nazi propaganda machine. Georgie gives us a real human take on what pre war Germany is like, portraying the Nazi hatred of the Jewish community and the horrors of what is occurring during this period of time .
There is intrigue, suspense, murder and lots of twists and turns that both Georgie and Max get involved with. A truly powerful, engaging and emotional story. I particularly enjoyed the ending of the book which provided a follow up of the lives of the main characters.
A big thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books for the opportunity to read and review.

The Berlin Girl centers around Georgina Young, a journalist for a newspaper in England, she jumps at the opportunity to report in Berlin at the onset of WWII. When George arrives the city doesn’t seem to be quite what she remembers from before. She meets a Jewish man, Rubin who was her driver from a previous visit and we all know what being Jewish means at this critical turning point in Germanys history and the cracks begin to show..

Ultimately a story of a female reporter, in Berlin in a mans world, was a powerful story that i enjoyed from page one.
Well researched, and engaging. I was really impressed with all the characters, If you love strong female characters, WWII historical fiction, and the telling of both from unique perspectives, you will not be disappointed!

Mandy Robotham does a great job creating a suspenseful plot, and with the added the angle of the story from the eyes of a reporter which I've not encounter in a historical fiction before. I enjoyed George and Max and felt that they were realistic, and interesting, I felt that the ending was appropriate and satisfying. It definitely kept me interested from beginning to end.

This is the third book I have read from Mandy Rosbotham and like the others it is a very well written, well researched and compelling work of fiction which I really enjoyed.

This book is set in Germany prior to the start of World War II. It is a powerful story with lots of insights into life in Berlin in 1938,

It will appeal to lovers of historical fiction.

Highly recommended!

This riveting WWII novel plucked me up into its gripping tale from Chapter 1 and didn't release me until I finished the last page. When young British newspaper woman, Georgie Young, is assigned to assist in her paper's Berlin office, it becomes increasingly apparent to her that Germany and the world are on a collision course towards war. As Georgie becomes more confident in her work as a reporter, and tensions with the Nazi presence in Berlin escalates, Georgie and her colleague, the mercurial Max Spencer, take steps to help a Jewish family, the Amsel's, escape from Germany before it's too late. What follows is a suspenseful thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. Brilliantly written, entwining Georgie's suspenseful story with the ominous atmosphere building in the heart of Nazi Germany leading up to the war. This book is a must read for anyone who loves strong female characters, a well-honed suspenseful story and WWII historical fiction. Even with an odd prologue that seemed out of place with Georgie's story, I'm giving this book 5 stars.

THE BERLIN GIRL by MANDY ROBOTHAM is a World War 11 novel with a difference in that it tells the story of a group of journalists in Berlin in 1938 to 1939 before the start of the war. It is a well written book with well defined characters. I especially like to see the growth in both Georgie and Max as they are faced with the truth of what is really going on in Hitler's Germany, which enables them to act in spite of the fear that is their constant companion. I also like to see the camaraderie amongst the members of the foreign press and their sense of humour, which seems to keep them going, as they do their best to portray what is really going on, although there is a limit to what they can write for fear of being thrown out of the country, or, worse still, arrested
Georgie has been to Berlin before as fashion correspondent at the Olympic Games, but this Berlin, with its Nazi flags and propaganda, is not the same.
When Max Spender meets "George" Young he is surprised to find she is a girl and they start off on the wrong foot, but when they witness the cruelty of the Nazis, especially towards the Jews, they cannot sit back and watch, and put their lives at risk to not only find out the truth behind people's disappearance, but to help the Amsel family.
This story shows the horrors of the Nazi régime, the wickedness of discrimination against groups of people, especially the Jews who are treated worse than animals. In contrast, we see how what they go through gives both Georgie and Max the strength to intervene where they can.
It is an inspirational read, full of intrigue and tension, and one I highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Avon Books U.K. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

The Berlin Girl is an excellent read. Robotham writes of a young reporter assigned to Berlin in the 12 months before the outbreak of war. It's heartbreaking to read about the injustices witnessed and the characters not able to intervene or even really report the truths. There were a couple of exciting scenes like out of a movie. I liked how the e ding offered follow up epilogues. WWII historical fiction is red hot right now and this one is not to missed.

I was offered an advance ARC from the publisher through Netgalley, as I had enjoyed her previous book The German Midwife.

This is a very different take on Berlin in the late 1930s. Georgie is a British Reporter who enjoys a certain amount of freedom that others would not have had at the time.

She hangs out in hotels, nightclubs, goes on dates with a handsome officer of the SS, and employs a Jewish driver. But Georgie is living dangerously and its only a matter of time before the Regime catches up with her. Or is it?

Georgie is a fantastic character, she is intelligent and sharp with it. She can handle herself well which gives her an excellent perspective in the novel.

I enjoyed the novel and found it very believable. In fact I came away thinking – you know would love if the author wrote about three other women in the story: Margot Moller, Frida Borken and Simone Doucette.

I loved this book!!!! The story took place before Hitler and the world went to war. It follows two journalists and shows us what Berlin was like during that time in history. She also shows us what the Jews were dealing at the time. This was one of my favorite books from that time in history!

Postcards from My Life

This is the story of Georgie Young, the girl that courted and reported Berlin. At a time when women were not generally recognized and taken seriously in the field of Journalism she paved her way to become the foreign correspondent to Berlin.

Along with a fellow Journalist Max Spender they reported the events leading up to WWII being declared in the city of Berlin Germany. They recognized the danger of the Nazi government and reported accordingly. After saving the lives of a Jewish couple the befriended they in turn had to run for their lives from Germany. They continued to report the war from other countries.

This book was deeply steeped in the journalism vocation, as well as the history of the gradual takeover by the Nazis and how the people of Berlin reacted throughout this historic time.

This was a great story, not only for the historic content of the war and Berlin, but of a woman determined to make a career for herself as a news reporter, but to report the happening so that the world would know what a threat the Nazis' were and the acts they were exercising against the Jewish people and others that the Nazi's deemed "Undesirable".

I enjoyed reading this book very much, the history, the romance and the courage held within the pages of this book and the story told. I recommend this book; I will believe you will love reading it as much as I did.

Thanks to Mandy Robotham, Avon Books UK, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Many thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher Avon Books UK for allowing me to read an advance copy of the book #TheBerlinGirl by #MandyRobotham. The views expressed in this review are mine and mine alone.

Being a fan of WW2 era novels I was delighted to have the chance to read another book by author Mandy Robotham. As usual, the cover art really caught my eye and let me know the era in which the story was set. The book begins in 1938 in the lead up to war and Georgie Young, a reporter who has been earning respect as a female in a time when most reporters were men has been assigned to work in Berlin. She’s excited about going and somewhat prepared because she has spent time in Berlin before. Sent off to travel with Max Spender, a reporter for another paper, she faces her first challenge when he makes it clear that he was expecting her to be a George of the male persuasion. Georgie won’t let that stop her though and quickly makes it clear that her skills are what brought her there and her ability to speak German will be crucial.

There are some books that when you start reading you are slowly drawn in and meander your way through the pages. This book is not one of them. I was riveted from the get go, and finished reading the book in relatively short order. The author appears to have done an excellent job researching the time period and as war drew closer in the story she laid out how life was changing for Berliner’s and how difficult it was to stay on the good side of those in power without compromising her own beliefs and values. She hired a driver that she had known on her last visit during the Olympics. He was a Jewish man and her hiring him and providing work made the difference between food and starvation. Although reporters were there from many different agencies, there was a real sense of camaraderie among them that I highly doubt would be present among news agencies of 2020.

I loved how the different characters of the story were developed and the ambivalence that was sometimes felt for those in opposition. At one point Georgie dates a German soldier and surprises herself by having fun and liking him. Meantime her relationship with Max Spender develops past the initial antagonism until they become very close friends.

This book has its share of action and moments where, as a reader I found myself holding my breath hoping things would turn out for the best. As the war begins, life becomes harder and so does the job of reporting what is happening without offending censors on either side of the ocean. Some news is considered too horrific to share.

This was a fascinating book about a strong woman in difficult times and a city facing existential change that has marked it forever. I really enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical novels of this time period. It will be available to order as an e-book October 29th, 2020.

I was so excited about this book. I love Berlin and I love the era. I loved the style of writing. I could not put this down and would thoroughly recommend.

I totally enjoyed reading this book. Couldn't put it down. Perfect read at the end of the day. Definitely recommend.

This is the story of Georgie Young, Max Spender, and their associates from the press as they travel to Berlin to write about what Hitler is doing in Germany. However it is not what the propaganda says it is. Georgie and Max see the truth and try to expose what is really happening. I enjoyed this very much. Excellent read with different perspective as seen from the eyes of the press

I really enjoyed this book. It is a different prospect from a journalist what's happened in Berlin in lead up to War.

I really liked Georgina or as she was called George she was a brave woman in wanting to help her friend who was a Jew. Trying to help his children and wife.

I was wondering what was going to happen to Max her fellow journalist when he was arrested.

I found the book sad in places what happened to all the Jews and other people who were not to the German's liking.

It was an exciting book and would definitely read this again and recommend it to anyone.

This was a real whirlwind of a book- things just kept happening! I couldn’t put it down and was forced to hold my breath as the story rushed to its exciting conclusion.
Georgie Young and Max Spender are junior newspaper foreign correspondents sent to Berlin in the year before the outbreak of World War 2 where they witness the darkness of the Nazi machine and Hitler’s strange power over the German people.
They become frustrated when their newspapers will not publish articles overtly critical to the political regime and they have to carefully craft their writing so that the English public can read between the lines and comprehend the horror of the situation in Berlin. I found it astonishing that one of the English newspapers, The Daily Mail, was actually supportive of Hitler’s regime but as is pointed out in the book, even some non-Germans held fascist views in the 1930s.
Georgie befriends the Jewish Amsel family when she employs Rubin as a drIver and she learns what a terrible situation the Jewish citizens of Berlin are in. Her natural instinct Is to try and help as much as she can and the more she learns about their plight the more she tries to do.
When her boss disappears whilst writing an article, Georgie is determined to find out what happened to him and why and this leads her into more danger and trouble.
I loved reading about all these wonderful characters- Georgie, in particular was amazing, a female reporter in a man’s world, even required to have a byline of George due to discrimination against women.
1930s Berlin came alive for me with the descriptions of the cafe society, the strudel and yes even the dark shadow of the Nazis, which sent a chill up my spine. It was reminiscent of the Berlin of Cabaret and was definitely well researched.
The love/ hate relationship between Georgie and Max was also interesting. At the beginning neither character had anything but disdain for the other but gradually they turn this around and friendship develops.
The climax of the story had me on the edge of my seat- will they won’t they........? I was willing everything to turn out positively.
So much happened in this book and there were a number of sub plots which the author fortunately tied together at the end.
A thoroughly enjoyable read which deserves every one of the five stars I am giving it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this different play on WW II historical fiction. It occurs before the start of war and how Berlin was like .
Good book !

It as interesting to follow Georgie and the fellow news correspondence people in Berlin. The rise of Hitler and how people brushed off what was happening was astonishing. There are some twists and turns to keep the story moving. My favorite was the postcards from Berlin which gave a the glimpse of what was happening in the country. I liked the way the author chose the end the novel with snippets of Georgie and Max's adventures in journalism. Recommended!

Loved this book. This is the 3rd of Mandy Robotham that I have read and she is definitely becoming one of my favourite historical fiction writers. I wasn't sure I was going to like the newspaper writer approach but there was so much more to the story than that and I was hooked pretty quickly. I enjoyed how the storyline switched between characters to tell a deeper story of what was truly happening at this time. Overall a great book that I would definitely recommend!

The Berlin Girl is without a doubt the best book I have read this year. I don't seem to get out of the WWII genre, and have read so many. I finished it last week and immediately upon finishing it, I tried to put everything into my head to give a proper review. The main character, Georgie a/k/a George is such a likeable person. She is so down to earth and has such a human heart, and a newbie journalist from London assigned to Berlin. There she meets a number of other journalists who seem to take her under their wings and they all develop true friendships. I liked how she thought Max was just a friend and of course, there was more to that friendship. I liked all of her journalist friends, but Max, in my mind, he was so handsome. I did have a little trouble keeping up with all of journalists She certainly made friends easily.

The research prior to the actual start of WWII is wonderful and so full of facts. I learned so much about that time period and the mood of Germany. I was unfamiliar with Hitler and the Nuremburg setting, Looking back I have seen it on so many documentaries that it is so nice to put the real places in the book. I loved all of the little cafes they would meet, and I definitely could get a description of them in my mind. That said, there isn't so much description that you want to buzz over it. and skip it.
I hate to give anything away, but I really enjoyed learning what happened to Max and Georgie after the war. There is one part toward the end that I am going to have to go back and reread since I was reading so fast to find out what happened, I don't know how Georgia managed to pull the situation off. My heart broke for Rubin and Sarah.
I always hate to write review for fear I am going to give a spoiler. So, I will answer the question: What makes this book different from all the others? The time period is prior to the start of WWII around 1938. I have not read anything to learn about these years prior to Britain and Germany entering the War. I knew nothing about life in Berlin exceprt maybe the old movie Caberet! I didn't know what role the newspaper journalists played in reporting the events in Berlin and in Germany. I cared about all of the facts because that is what really happened and not made up stuff. This book has mystery, suspense, a bit of romance and such a quick read! For me, it was one of those you can't put down!!!!! Every chance I get I would pick it up and read a chapter or two. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this before it was released to the retail market.

It's 1938, Berlin in the dark days just as WWII is about to begin. when a novice reporter, Georgie Young and Max Spender are posted to Berlin. They are about to witness the horrors as Germany, under the Nazi regime, starts their terror. As a female correspondent she has a lot to prove and while uncovering the Nazi's secrets, Georgie put herself in dangerous situations. While this is a WWII story, it is also a romantic novel. I have read many of them since they are flooding the market right now. I can't say this is very different from others I have read lately, but I was drawn into the story with the author's ability to create a well written novel. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Absolutely loved this book! The writing, the story, and the characters kept me completely engaged. I was glued to this book and didn't want it to end. I would definitely recommend this book. Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy!!

This is a book about truth. It's about the importance of the coverage of news. It's about a reporter on assignment.

As a new member of the British foreign press, Georgina Young is excited to be in the lively city of Berlin in the late 1930s. She joins other leading correspondents as they seek breaking news stories. While she has written about fashion, this is a new role for her as she positions herself with a place to live, a driver and most importantly: contacts. It doesn't take long before she finds herself digging through documents, visiting undesirable areas and trying to decide if she's a reporter or detective finding a missing friend. She questions if she is a reporter writing facts or submitting stories with human bias from the emotional strain of seeing people starving, beaten and treated badly. She asks: "can a journalist remain objective?"

It's a book that makes us aware of the importance of writers, reporters and the foreign press. This book gives the example of how a reporter can risk their own life to bring us important news stories. It highlights alternative roles during challenging times such as officers showing power, neighbors showing distrust and doctors that follow unethical rules from dictators.

While I've read many WWII historical novels, I enjoyed a different perspective from this one with a romantic twist. Each section started with a date which makes me think of the timing of events and how quickly things happened. It also showed how powerful it is to meet, eat and drink as that's where a lot of stories are found. Wish I had a bite of a streusel mentioned many times.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGallery for allowing me to read this book in advance.

George Young is a fashion reporter come foreign correspondent. Her first post, Berlin, 1938. This is her fictionalized story. As usual a great read by @mandyrobotham. Thank you #netgalley for my advanced copy of #theberlingirl in return for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. The setting was a particular appeal seeing Berlin in those interwar years from a foreign perspective. Seeing the events unfold was about what I expected but nevertheless completely fascinating. I’d love a sequel

Georgie is a junior reporter from the Fashion pages of the Chronicle wanting to be more she gets a posting to Berlin the year before the outbreak of war. because of the prejudice of women reporters she goes by the by-line of George.

The story is of a gutsy but naïve reporter getting her stripes in a very tumultuous time and discovering what she can and can't do. Getting lessons from other veteran reporters and trying not to lose her humanity in the face of Nazi oppression and aggression towards the Jewish people. The twist that came so close to the end made me put the book down and take a few minutes. Kasper truly is awful!

I enjoyed the change of format for the epilogue with the news reports from after the war.

This is my second book by Robotham and the 2nd one I have given 5* the scene setting, anguish and dilemma she places in her novels stay with you. I still think about "Woman of War" or "The German Midwife"(depending on your country) months after finishing it. I eagerly await the next.

Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for the copy of the book for review.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham follows the Life of journalist Georgie young who is sent as a foreign correspondent to cover life in Berlin Germany in the 1930’s at the brink of WW2. She is joined by Max Spender also from London. She is surrounded by Nazi’s and spies. She is there to tell the world of what’s really happening there and what the Jews are put through. Even helping one of them with his family to escape the atrocities of war.
Thank you, Avon books, for a copy of The Berlin Girl. I have read the authors two previous books and loved them too. This is a bit different to her other books. It is told with a different perspective. But still has a engaging suspenseful and realistic account of what happened in the 1930’s before the war broke out. Sometimes shocking in parts how evil the Nazi’s were. Five stars from me.

This is a very impressive read and keen insight into not only what it must have been like to have lived under the Nazi regime but also to have worked as a female journalist. This was a man's world of course in both work and politics so poor Georgie in the novel has everything against her.

Georgie has to try and portray back to the people back in the UK, just what the reality is like in pre war Berlin. But who is going to believe her? History tells us that no one believed anything of the real danger until it was too late. It's great to see her work and passion though even if I was screaming at her to get out on more than one occasion. This is high drama and quite stressful to read at times but that just shows how good the author has been in her research and her portrayal of that on the page.

When Georgie attempts to date a Nazi officer to get information, my stomach was in my mouth!

One of the best portrayals of war I've read in a long while

Georgie Young, a foreign correspondent in Berlin during the Nazi occupation, along with another journalist, Max Spender. Both of them recognise the danger on Nazi government. I love Georgie character, as a strong independent and intelligent woman. They also help Rubin's family, Jewish, to flee from Berlin. This book certainly has suspense, a bit of romance and truly described the journalism works in Germany during Hitler occupation.

Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC of this book.

I really enjoyed this and found it really engrossing. It was really well written and it held my interest from start to finish.

I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The setting is just-prewar Nazi Germany through the Nazis unprovoked attack on Poland. Georgie “George” is a reporter out of London and along with a cast of reporters from the UK and US covers what is happening. Of course, the Nazi Propaganda Machine tells them only what it wants the rest of the world to knows, but Georgie is having none of it. As her beloved Berlin becomes more and more a city preparing for war, she becomes determined to flesh out what is happening at Sachsenhausen (a German concentration camp). Her driver Rubin is a German Jew and like all German Jews is suffering at the hands of antisemitism. Together with Max, a fellow reporter from England, the three are able to work around the SS and Gestapo, but some of it asks the reader to suspend belief.

In the days before the internet and 5G transmitting reports back to London was a laborious process. The British press would not print everything Georgie was seeing and experiencing so she took to sending “Postcards From Berlin” which were short, but newsworthy. The world wasn’t ready for another World War and the majority of people outside of Germany didn’t take the situation seriously.

The book has far too many characters and far too many mentions of strudel. I love strudel, but given the number of times it is mentioned, I am surprised the author didn’t provide a recipe. The author has love stories, war, Concentration Camps, the Jewish Underground, “Undesirables,” German experiments on prisoners, espionage, spying and Kritallnacht all in one book. The book is engaging, but given the sobering reality of Nazi brutality, Nazi destruction of so much of Europe and the Holocaust, I think the successful outcomes that Georgie and her accomplices manage are somewhat fantastical.

Thank you again NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book. It's the story of a female news reporter at the beginning of WW II in Berlin. I can only assure you that it's a must read of an amazing book.

A well written novel about a female journalist and her time in pre World War II Berlin. Caught up with helping a Jewish family escape Germany, Georgie and her friend Max become hunted for their efforts. The characters are believable, engaging, and the narrative flows in this story. Well worth the time, especially for those who enjoy historical fiction.

Another excellent novel from Mandy Robotham and having read her previous two novels and loved both of them it was no surprises to me to find that this one also lived up to all expectations and I think it’s actually my favourite so far. What I love about this book is that the author seems to have an uncanny ability to draw you into the story with her brilliant portrayal of the characters and with her obvious amount of research she has done it really sets the scene for a thrilling read in a terrible and frightening time.
The main character of Georgie Young a war correspondent in what is very much a man’s world and we follow her story as she gets more and more involved in a pre war Berlin getting closer and closer to war and the horrific events of Kristallnacht it makes for a harrowing read at times but also it shows hope and determination to survive, it’s also a wonderful story with lots of interesting historical facts.
So another winner from Mandy Robotham and one I can highly recommend.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I love WW2 fiction. When I noticed the cover of the Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham (The German Midwife, The Secret Messenger), I couldn't stop myself from requesting it. Thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for giving me an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Berlin Girl follows Georgina "Georgie" Young, a female reporter in prewar Berlin. She is sent there by <i> The Chronicle</i> to cover the latest news along with Max Spender from <i>The Telegraph</i>. Another parallel story is of Rubin Amsel, a Jew in Berlin with an "imperfect" brother-in-law. They are living in terror of the Gestapo knocking at their door to take him away.

Georgie asks Amsel to be her driver within the city. She intends to use his inner knowledge of Berlin to her advantage. However, the fate of these two people in a hostile city under the dictator becomes intertwined and complicated.

Max Spender, too, despite his initial distrust of Georgie, seeks her help when he inadvertently gets into trouble.

The author has described the tense atmosphere of Berlin in the late 1930s perfectly. The fear that Georgie feels throughout her stay there is palpable. Another thing I liked immensely about this book is that the characters, even the side ones, are extremely well-written. The story is fast-paced. I read it overnight! (Those who know me know how difficult this is for me). I couldn't stop because I wanted to know what happens next.

Very enjoyable. Must read.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Avon for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! In short, I loved it and will definitely purchase a hardcopy when the book is published as this is one I have to have on my shelf.

I'm a huge historical fiction fan and this book is a new favourite! The book follows the life of Georgie Young, a British journalist who is seconded to Berlin in the years just before WWII. Having previously been to Berlin to cover the 1936 Olympics, Georgie gives us a front row seat to how the Nazi regime has slowly but surely changed the manner in which Germany operates, and more harrowing - the laws it puts in place to quietly oppress Jewish and other "undesirable" people and strip them of their dignity.

Georgie makes it her mission to tell the outside world of what is really happening in Berlin behind all the state pride and Nazi fanfare - a job that is not easy as the foreign press are treated with hostility in Berlin, the outside world too seems to be buying into Hitler's endless propaganda and Nazi spies are around every corner...
Georgie's story will have you gripped from the get-go and you'll constantly find yourself hoping that things turn out for the best even though the events that are unfolding (and your knowledge of what really did happen during WWII) tell you otherwise.

I really loved the character of Georgie, she felt like a friend and I had so much respect for how she never lost sight of her beliefs and values as she navigated her way through both Nazi Germany and a profession that could be extremely sexist at times. I also developed a soft spot for the many friends she made along the way, particularly her fellow journalists Rod and Max, and of course her loyal Jewish assistant Rubin - all of who play important roles in her story.

It's rare that I say this about a book but the ending here was absolutely perfect - it tied every storyline in the book up so beautifully.

A historical WWII story that draws you into the history of Berlin before the start of the war.
The main character is Georgie Young. She is a foreign news correspondent sent to Berlin.
The research and information included in the storyline is very well researched and extremely intense at times. I could feel the tension and danger as I read the story. Full of suspense, intrigue, murder and mystery. The romance aspect was a nice touch.
The Berlin Girl is a must read if you like to read WWII novels.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read the book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Brilliant. I read this book in one sitting. I had to know what happened to Georgie and Max. Pre War Germany was a fascinating topic to read about. It was intriguing to read what Berlin was like in the build up to World War 2. This is a story about bravery and love through this tremulous period in history.

Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.

The Berlin Girl
by Mandy Robotham
Avon Books UK
Avon
General Fiction (Adult) | Historical Fiction | Romance
Pub Date 29 Oct 2020 | Archive Date Not set

I enjoyed this book much more than I anticipated. I have read her other books and this is one is oh so much better.! Thank you Avon Books and NetGalley for providing the ARC of this book. I will recommend it to our patrons who love to read WW2 novels. This will be a great addition to our collection.

5 stars

Georgia is a reporter, attempting to make a name for herself in a male dominated field. Her byline and nickname have allowed her a measure of anonymity, which parlays itself to an assignment in Berlin, in the early days of WW2. While in Berlin, she and her colleagues begin to realize what is truly going on in Germany, but are in a position unable to help. When it is her own friends at stake, Georgie needs to risk everything to help them survive.

I love historical fiction and books set in the WW2 era, but this one really does a great job showing the lead up to the typical topics. Taking place in the late 1930s, when foreign reporters were still being courted by the Nazis to hide the atrocities being planned, Georgie and her friends have an inside look at the regime. Georgie's surprise relationship with a Nazi soldier adds more layers to the character, how can the man she enjoys spending time with also be capable of murder and more.

4 stars, maybe 5, especially if you enjoy this era for historical reads.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the publisher Avon Books UK and author Mandy Robotham for an advance copy of this book.

WWII historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and this one didn't disappoint!

The Berlin Girl follows English Rookie Journalist Georgie (aka George) Young from the time she and fellow journalist from a different paper arrive in Berlin in 1938 until war is finally declared.

I loved reading a book from the perspective of an outsider looking in and seeing the country and the people transform before their eyes. The complacency of the rest of the world when the foreign press was desperately trying to get across what was happening was anything but friendly and peaceful.

I enjoyed how the story unfolded slowly and kept me wondering where it was going. I also enjoyed the close relationships that Georgie made with the other foreign journalists and locals. They felt more like her own family than her own parents.

The ending was uniquely written in the form of newspaper articles to capture the important moments in Georgie’s life after leaving Berlin. Brilliant, succinct and to the point!!

I think the way this book was written would make a great movie. Highly recommend this book.

I throughly enjoyed reading this book, thank you net gallery for the chance to preview it. It’s certainly a well written novel that will have your heart aching in all the right places. I adored reading about Georgie and Max, it really is a fascinating time in history. And even though this is just fictional, the characters are believable and the narrative engages well with the audience.

Readers will appreciate this latest from Robotham for the way she's able to slowly up the tension felt in Berlin in the lead up to WWII. Georgie, an ambitious young reporter, is sent to Berlin, along with Max (who was, based on her name, expecting a male colleague). She's been there before so she feels good about it until the rising tide of National Socialism starts to creep into her life and that of her friends and employees. She finds herself trying to help others, not always successfully, and engaged in a relationship of sorts with a German. Georgie walks a tightrope between the Nazis, all the while remaining in contact with Sam in the British Embassy. Then Max is arrested. Can she get him released? No spoilers. This has good characters and a big heart so if it seems a bit rushed, go with it. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. For fans of historical fiction.

Yes, I know … another WWII book. What can I say? I’m a fan. Besides, The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham is a gem of a story: super original, equally terrifying and exciting, and definitely one to play with your emotions.

The story begins in 1938 as Georgie Young, an up-and-coming reporter is assigned to work in Berlin. Having covered the Olympic Games of 1936, she’s excited to return to Berlin. Joined on the journey by another young reporter, Max Spender, she is quick to react at his assumption that “George Young” would be a man, and she assures him she has both the journalistic and language skills to do the job. Her ability to speak German soon puts Max in his place. Way to go, Georgie!

This original start to the story drew me in, and despite its relatively slow pace, it acted as the perfect precursor to a thrilling and exhilarating journey through the pre-war days and the subsequent declaration of war with Germany.

Georgie is determined to do things her way, even hiring a driver she knows from her prior visit at a time when Jews like Ruben are being met with one restriction after another. It is her involvement with him and his family that ultimately saves their lives, bringing food to the table early on and later by their escape. She is not alone in helping out families like Ruben’s; many of the reporters from other countries are just as active, though some of the more vocal are soon deported from Germany.

When it becomes apparent that a German officer shows an interest in Georgie because of her Englishness, she is quick to spot the opportunity to use him for information to help her friends. At this point, it’s not only Ruben who is in danger, but Georgie too. It’s a tense moment when they go to Sachsenhausen concentration camp to retrieve letters from those imprisoned there. The pages flew by as I hoped for a good result.

Kudos to the author for including the character of Elias, Ruben’s brother-in-law – not just a Jew, but a disabled one, a person for whom the Nazi regime and all its abominations was doubly prejudiced.

Of course, knowing of the atrocities carried out, not every plan has a happy outcome, and when Georgie is called back to England, she feels her Berlin years are over. But, luckily they aren’t, and she returns in a more senior role, ready and raring to go as tensions accelerate in the city. Daily briefings with senior Nazi officials only intensify her need to help those being arrested and sent away to certain death. Only now, she has Max on her side too. And their activities grow ever more daring until they have no option but to flee themselves.

This book has a wonderful mix of drama and tension, of hope and a need to defeat the oppressors. Georgie is a strong woman in a city that changes beyond her imagination; the act of reporting becomes harder as restrictions come into play and the journalists have to find innovative ways of passing on the news. While newspapers abroad are cautious about reporting all of the news in its gory and horrific details, Georgie cleverly sends in her “Postcards” from a Berlin correspondent with an anonymous, yet birds-eye view of what is really happening.

The post-war articles at the end of the story, chronicling Georgie’s career and personal life are a lovely touch and only makes me admire her more.

I really enjoyed The Berlin Girl and highly recommend it to fans of WWII historical novels. It will be available to order as an e-book October 29th, 2020.

Many thanks to #NetGalley and the publisher Avon Books UK for allowing me to read an advance copy of the book #TheBerlinGirl by #MandyRobotham. The views expressed in this review are mine and mine alone.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham is historical fiction set in Berlin in 1938. If you like to feel you are part of history while reading, Ms. Robotham‘s latest book will transport you to 1930‘s Germany. I could see the beauty and ugliness, feel the fear of the people and the thrill of those in prominent Nazi positions. It is a bold book of mysteries, thrills, politics, horror and a portrayal of developing evil. The Berlin Girl is a must read for readers of World War II History.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. 5 Stars

Another cracking page turner from Mandy Robotham! Georgie is a journalist in Berlin in 1938, just prior to WW2. She and her friends see what is happening with the Jews, and with the situation with the Nazis, and the fact that war is imminent. The papers back home don't want to believe it or print it, unless it is toned down. Plus she wants to help her Jewish friends who are caught up in all this. Against a backdrop of extravagant parties, a whirlwind of social excesses and everyone having a great time, there is the dark and scary side getting closer. Loved it, couldn't put it down

Berlin, 1938: Georgie Young arrives in Berlin with fellow British journalist Max Spender and she’s not sure what to make of him? She’s been to Germany before, two years ago for the Olympic Games, she notices how much Berlin has changed, the oppressive atmosphere and tension in the beautiful city. The Third Reich’s propaganda was everywhere; Nazi flags are flying, pictures of Hitler and the intimidating sound of Jackboots marching around the city.
Rubin, Sara, Leon and Ester Amsel are German citizens; they live in Berlin and are Jewish. Georgie employees Rubin as her driver, he's very grateful for the job and he’s hopeful that she might also be able to help his family? Suddenly the situation in Berlin escalates and Georgie witnesses firsthand the night of the broken glass, the destruction of Jewish businesses, property, synagogues and people being badly hurt.
She and her fellow press pack are working from hotel Adlon, when one of their own a fellow journalist Paul Adamson goes missing; he’s been following a story and was he onto something sinister? Georgie begins to uncover the unspeakable truth about Hitler’s Germany; anyone classed as undesirable was taken away and placed in a facility or they disappeared. It’s also pretty obvious Germany was involved in heavy industry, needed to make and stockpile weapons, tanks and it’s a clear breach of the worldwide conventions that were put in place after Germany was defeated in the First World War.
The Berlin Girl is a story about life in Germany leading up to WW II, how evil Hitler and the Nazi party were, the horrible plans and ideals they began to enforce. Georgie Young the main character and heroine of the story hated the terrible injustice towards Jewish people, she had a strong conscious and she wanted to make a difference despite Germany being on the brink of starting another war.
I have read The German Midwife and The Secret Messenger by Mandy Robotham and I enjoyed them both. But oh my goodness Mandy has really gone to another level with The Berlin Girl; I absolutely devoured it, one of the best books I have read this year and five stars from me.

With thanks to NetGalley and AvonBooks UK for an early copy in return for an honest review.

Admittedly my favorite era of historical fiction is WWII but I appreciated the different approach of The Berlin Girl. Rather than focus on the events from 1940-1945, like many books in this genre, Robotham set the stage for the start of the war with a look at Berlin in 1938 and 1939. I was enthralled and read the book in less than 24 hours. The story of Georgie, Max, Rubin, Sara was well-written and I felt like I was write there in Berlin with the press pack.

Just before WW2 begins, 2 London journalists are assigned to Berlin. Georgina and Max work for different news organizations. They are there to report on Hitler's Germany. But, there is so much that they see and cannot report without being thrown out of the country. They try to help...

'The Berlin Girl' was another brilliant historical read from one of my favourite authors. Georgie is another fierce heroine and you're completely immersed in her journey throughout the novel.

The setting is also brought to life brilliantly, evocative and harrowing this author clearly does a lot of research to ensure the reader is completely lost in the world she's building around you.

An easy 5/5 start and an author who will continue to be on my 'must read' list. A fantastic book that I highly recommend to any historical fiction fans.

The Berlin Girl is about a young woman who goes to Berlin right before the start of the Second World War as a reporter to report on what is going on in Nazi Germany. She sees a ton of different things and witnesses Nazi atrocities first hand, and has a wild experience. She witnesses the harsh living conditions, the anti-Semitism, and the corruption and violence of the Nazis.
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I really liked Georgie as a main character. She was witty and spunky and wanted to be taken seriously as a female journalist. Our other main character, Max, was also interesting in the sense that he did not take Georgie seriously at first, but then she proves him wrong and the two form an unlikely attachment.
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We also get to see the level of appeasement practiced by the other world powers towards Germany at the time before the war, and how other countries did not want to get involved in what was going on.
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While the ending was a bit abrupt, I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the characters and recommend this book for historical fiction lovers.

Poignant, heartbreaking and beautiful, The Berlin Girl is a historical fiction but it feels the events really could have happened just before WWII Germany. Dates at the beginnings of chapters give a timeline to follow.

Georgie Young, an intrepid young correspondent from London, accepts an assignment to Berlin. As soon as she arrives she senses an almost eerie state of calm and order in the streets, red flags flapping in the breeze. But the calm exterior is a front for something far more sinister and evil as she quickly discovers. Filled with compassion she wants to help Jewish people but is told to not get involved.

Max Spender, another correspondent from London with more international experience, is quick to see through Hitler propaganda as well. He and Georgie pair up to seek truths but it's difficult as not everyone is who and what they seem. Personal missions grow well beyond reporting.

Berlin is the epicenter of excitement, both good (Cosmopolitan) and bad, mostly the latter. The Jews are treated deplorably and Georgie and Max are desperate to help. As British foreigners they are better tolerated at first so they use that to their advantage. Along the way they form deep friendships with others. Meanwhile, Georgie continues to write her column on the human side of the war for the newspaper in England to create awareness.

So much to love here...it's so easy to become lost in and impossible to put down (I walked around the house with it glued to my hand). Characters and events are believable and have depth. The subplots are equally fascinating, twisting and turning to the very last page. The newspaper articles are brilliant!

If I had to sum this book up in five words they would be heartbreaking, enchanting, bittersweet, lovely and riveting. I wanted to laugh with them and cry with them.

A very easy 5/5 for me.

My sincere thank you to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this enthralling book in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated.

I have read all of Mandy Robothams book. She is one of my favourite authors. I really enjoy WWII novels and she writes them so well. This one did not disappoint and I got through it quickly. Brilliant story and characters that transport you to that time. Brilliant as always from Many Robothams. I can’t wait for her next!

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to preview and review this book.

Wow! I could not put this book down! This was a first by this author and loved it.. heartbreaking at times! Filled with hope! Loved it!

‘It was the beginning of war - and me, in so many ways. Part of me, I think, will always be that Berlin girl.’

Mandy Robotham is quickly becoming a ‘go to’ author for me as you are always guaranteed a great read. The interesting aspect of this novel is that it is pre World War II and takes place over a year from summer 1938 until the declaration of war. It is fascinating to be on the streets of Berlin as tensions begin to rise.

‘... it was vital that someone should record this abuse against humanity – pictures, in this case, might be more valuable than words. So far, reports alone had not been enough to provoke any reaction from outside Germany to what Hitler was creating. Maybe the world needed to see it in stark black and white, staring at this debacle over their breakfast?’

The story centres around Georgie Young, a young British journalist sent to Berlin as a foreign correspondent. Being a Londoner, Georgie’s view of events are insightful as she witnesses the ruthless control as the Nazis assume a stranglehold on the city. Once again, Mandy has done her research and it is fascinating to be a witness to how things begin to change in a city that Georgie feels drawn to and feels such affinity with.

It starts off a little slow, as there are a range of characters to establish. At tims the plot could be stronger, overall however, the smaller everyday events compensate for this. By the end, the pace really picks up and as the action reaches a crescendo, it is hard to put down. It was encouraging to have a strong female lead in, what was then, a male stronghold - she could hold it ‘with the boys’ who came from a range of newspaper affiliations. I also very much appreciated the detailed epilogue that gives a brief window into what happened to many of the characters throughout the years to follow. Something not often given and provides nice closure.

‘More than ever, she’d felt herself come of age in just one night; there was no pretence at being a fledgling reporter now. This was serious. And she had little choice but to rise to the challenge.’

There is some romance but it runs secondary to the overall theme. There is also Rubin, Georgie’s Jewish driver, who provides the first person POV for the domestic viewpoint and what it was like in the last days as many tried to escape persecution and incarceration. The ending is a little predictable but the epilogue, as mentioned, more than compensates for that.

Despite not being a five star read as I have found Mandy’s other books to be, this is still really solid reading for historical fiction fans, particularly WWII diehards. The attraction here is to be a part of the Berlin living just months before war was actually declared and seen through the eyes of a young person not affiliated or under the Nazi spell.

‘Why wasn’t the rest of the world truly afraid? Did everyone have to live directly under Hitler’s tyranny to realise his vile capabilities?’

This book is set in the late 1930's, Berlin, just as Hitler is coming into power. Georgina aka Georgie is a journalist. Georgie and other journalists from around the world are reporting what they are witnessing, however, their pieces are not actually being printed.

This was a bit of a slow starter for me, but once the story got going it was great. I found myself holding my breath as Georgie navigates the city with her Jewish driver, Rubin. I enjoyed and appreciated the friendship between Georgie and Max a fellow journalist.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon for this advanced readers copy. This book released October, 2020.

Thank you NetGalley and AVON/HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. for a copy of "The Berlin Girl" in exchange for my honest opinion.

Ms. Robotham has written another fantastic book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The book starts out in Berlin on 23rd July 1938. The main character is Georgina Young, though everyone calls her Georgie and she writes under the name of George Young. She's a reporter for the Chronicle. She meets fellow reporter Max Spender who works for the Telegraph. At first he tends to go along with the belief that women are not capable of being serious reporters, that they should be writing for the fashion or society pages instead. However as time goes on they grow in respect and friendship.

The story is also told from the viewpoint of Rubin Amsel. A former journalist himself but he has been doing whatever he can to bring in some money - driving, interpreting, delivering groceries - his only crime is that he was born a Jew. Georgie puts him on retainer for the Chronicle as a driver but when a decree comes about saying that Jews are not allowed to drive - she finds other things that he can do for her.

Max believes at first that it is not their job to change the opinions of the world, just to report what they see. What they see is that life in Germany is changing and no one believes it.

Georgie shares a flat with Frida Borken and Simone Doucette. Both are lovely but are they really who they portray themselves to be? Max and Georgie do all they can to help Rubin and Sara Amsel at great personal costs. They also befriend an actress named Margot Moller who is searching for Paul Adamson who Georgie was supposed to report to but rarely saw and then he disappeared altogether.

Georgie is taken to Sachsenhausen camp, though at the time is isn't aware of where she had been taken in the dark by Kasper Vortsch. The more Max and Georgie learn the more want to get the truth out to the readers of their respective papers. Sam Blundon at the British Embassy becomes a close friend and ally to the writers and he saves them on several occasions, especially as it seems they are very close to having war break out.

The story comes to a dramatic conclusion as all the characters are either working to get out of the country or to cause trouble. The last few chapters deal with the aftermath of the war and details on what happened to each character.

This book was beautifully written and conveyed the importance of being free to write what you want, wherever and whenever you want to.

Georgie Young, a young journalist, is posted to Berlin in September 1938. This is her first break as a journalist and she is determined to make the most of it. Author Mandy Robotham created a story that shows what it would have been like to be in Berlin during the year before WW II. Through Georgie’s eyes as she navigates the world of journalists we see the terror build for her driver, a Jewish man, Rubin, and his wife, Sara. Georgie and a connection she has in the British embassy work to send Rubin’s and Sara’s children in one of the first children’s transports to England. I especially liked this story line. I felt the author did a great job showing the danger for the correspondent’s. The book made me nervous at times for some of the characters. It made me laugh and it made me cry. I also felt fear for them at times. This is what a good book does. I also appreciated the Epilogue as the reader is gratified to find out what happened to the many characters during and after the war. My thanks to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for this ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.

Berlin, in the summer of 1938, is on the brink of war. London reporters Georgie Young an d Max Spender are there, reporting on the things that are happening all around them. However, the more they see, the more disillusioned they become by the Nazi party and they make it their personal mission to help as many people as they can while they are still allowed to be in the country.
This book was both fascinating and sad, the way the Jews, elderly and people with disabilities were treated. It gave lot of insight into the nightlife of Berlin which I didn't know before now, and found really interesting. This is a captivating read that anyone who has an interest in historical fiction will thoroughly enjoy.

A nice steady paced story with little spurts of interest along the way. I couldn't help myself to read faster when the adrenaline kicked in due to the action on a couple of occasions. I particularly enjoyed the epilogue newspaper reports. A very clever way on giving you a run down of events of the characters lives after the war. Genius!

Out of the 3 Mandy Robotham books that I've read, my favourite is still Woman of War (German Midwife). I still think of that book today

Keep up the good work Mandy!!

The Berlin Girl was engaging from page 1. Beautifully written and impeccably researched, I was captivated as we followed Georgie’s journey to Berlin, as she blossomed from a young reporter in a glamourous city, to a hardened and daring journalist in a developing war zone. She engaged with the locals and colleagues at her newspaper bureau, learning first hand of the plight of the Jewish community and developing life-long friendships as she endeavoured to use her position and contacts to assist the Jewish family she grew so fond of. More than once I found myself holding my breath, dreading that something would befall her as time and again she took risks, mingling with German officers and hoping to glean information to assist her downtrodden Jewish friends. Her daring as she tries to help her Jewish friends gain release from Sachsenhausen, one of many concentration camps, brought to life the plight suffered by so many at this awful time. I loved this book, cannot recommend it highly enough.

This was a book that I struggled to get in to. It was one of those reads where I was constantly interrupted and this definitely did not help me with my concentration. However, once I was settled into the narrative, I found it really interesting and enjoyable.

Despite having read several books set in the Second World War, this is the first book I have read that is set in Berlin, in the eighteen months before war begins. This was an usual twist for me because it is so unique from my other readings. It certainly made it more interesting and reinforced my interest in the period.

The horrors that take place as a result of Nazi Germany are well-documented. This setting added a fresher perspective and a new slant to stories I have read. Meeting Georgie, a female journalist who has constantly been put down as a result of her gender, I felt admiration towards her struggle and also pride because she was sent out to Berlin as a foreign correspondent.

Landing in Berlin with another correspondent, Max, the two journalists soon establish themselves with other global reporters. Over the course of the story, the tension subtly increases as Hitler’s plans become more evident. I loved how Robotham gradually shifted the pressure in the book and the symbolism of the red flags became more dominant as the start of the war draws closer.

It was difficult not to read this without a sense of dread. Hindsight and knowing more than Georgie played a significant role in this. Her relationship with a German officer was particularly uncomfortable for me, particularly as the danger towards Georgie increased. The risks that she undertakes for a story and also to protect her friends really demonstrated her strength and represented the challenges that women and journalists of that time had faced.

The writer not only details Georgie’s challenges, but also from the Jewish perspective, enlightening readers of their restrictions and fears. I found this added another depth to the narrative and increased the tension that runs through the pages. On the other hand, I would liked to have seen more detail on Georgie’s French flatmates, especially as so much is implied about their identities. It was refreshing that the story was not dominated by romance and a love interest, because it forced me to focus on the significant political changes that were occurring in Berlin.

This was a really interesting book and very different to stories I have read recently. I think this is a novel I am going to have to re-visit to get a true appreciation of Robotham’s narrative. However, because this is based on fact makes the story more poignant and the danger more palpable.

With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Earlier this summer I discovered The German Midwife by Many Robotham at our library, and was very pleasantly surprised by her prose, research and ability to draw the reader into the lives of the characters (both good and evil) and not wanting to leave their tales behind even after the book has ended. Therefore, I was beyond thrilled to receive and advanced copy of Robotham’s latest book, The Berlin Girl. I have no idea where to start with this book, what a powerful, beautiful, emotional and moving story that was so hard to put down, yet I read slowly and savored every word, as I journeyed through the rise of Hitler during pre-WWII.

Berlin, 1938: It’s the height of summer, and Germany is on the brink of war. When fledgling reporter Georgie Young is posted to Berlin, alongside fellow Londoner Max Spender, she knows they are entering the eye of the storm.

Arriving to a city swathed in red flags and crawling with Nazis, Georgie feels helpless, witnessing innocent people being torn from their homes. As tensions rise, she realizes she and Max have to act – even if it means putting their lives on the line.

But when she digs deeper, Georgie begins to uncover the unspeakable truth about Hitler’s Germany – and the pair are pulled into a world darker than she could ever have imagined…

The Berlin Girl takes the reader on a journey through a period of time not often captured and detailed in historical fiction, and this is what drew me into the story.

As I read I found myself becoming more and more attached to each of the characters in Georgie’s life along with Georgie herself. Robotham gives the reader many characters who are appealing and easy to care about, to shed tears for, but also some truly selfish and loathsome characters who are cold and calculating and behave shockingly. I still cannot believe the ambivalence felt towards the actions of Hitler and his men by those in charge of the press and in turn shutting down articles about the real horrors already occurring in Berlin and throughout Germany, because the truth would not be palatable for their readers. Thankfully, this did not deter Georgie as she found a way to use her sarcasm and “read-between-the-lines” writting style to let the world know the truth. This is just one of the Georgie’s character will stay with me, plus she was the light in the story…strong, intelligent and ahead of her time, and I found myself truly admiring her strong spirit.

For those who love action in their stories, this book has quite a few moments where I found myself holding my breath and gripping my IPad so tight that my knuckles turned white as I hoped and prayed everything would end well for each character I had grown so fond of.

This was an engaging story about a tumultuous time in which a strong woman was willing to stand up, record the facts and stay present to the horrors beginning to engulf Berlin and in turn ended up changing the world forever. If you are a fan of historical fiction, this book is definitely one to pick up!

Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.

Georgie Young is a budding reporter, sent to Berlin in 1938 to report on the rise of Hitler. Meeting Max Spender, her initial reaction is to find him rude and of course, skeptical of a woman writer, rare at the time. As the plight of Jews and political enemies worsened, Georgie becomes involved with the Amstel family, Georgie’s personality makes the book what it is, her strength and ability to grow and empathize. The story line about Sausenhausen, a concentration camp not usually mentioned, added to the depth of the story. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, and I will be looking to read more from this author. Recommended for the story, characters and plot lines.

The Berlin Girl by Mandy Robotham is a thrilling historical novel that will have your heart racing as you read. A blend of fact and fiction, the reader will be equally entertained and horrified.
The novel is set in Berlin during 1938 - September 1939 as we follow the fortunes of a group of newspaper reporters from Britain and America. We see the gutsy Georgie, a young woman who does not let her female sex hold her back. She is brave and daring as she sets about uncovering horrors that the Nazis want hidden. She is also kind, compassionate and loyal, doing what she has to in order to help her friends.
Within Berlin in 1938 there is an air of dislike and mistrust as the Nazi regime ramps up its evil. “Maybe your average German doesn’t believe it, but they wouldn’t dare express it.” Fear rules lives meaning many stay silent when they should speak up. It reminds me of the famous quote, “For evil to flourish it just needs good men to do nothing.”
As readers we witness what begins as one off acts of horror become ordinary everyday events – and still the people say nothing.
Jewish persecution rapidly becomes a way of life as we witness the horrors leading up to 9th November, Kristallnacht. As a historian, I knew what was coming in the autumn of 1938 but the horror still hit me like an express train. Man’s inhumanity to man is truly shocking.
The newspaper folk were brave and loyal. They did not fall for Joseph Goebbels spin on news, recognising it for the lies it was. They worked together to help which meant that they too, could become targets for Nazi atrocities.
I found The Berlin Girl a fascinating and horrifying read. Mandy Robotham has perfectly captured the pre-war atmosphere of Berlin as we witnessed the birth of pure evil. May we never forget the 6 million innocents who perished.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

Did I devour 90% of this book in one sitting? Yes, yes I did. Would I do it again? Absolutely.

Our girl Georgie is a journalist, but a fairly new one. She gets sent to pre-war Berlin with an annoying male journalist Max to report the truth, or as much of it as possible. Having previously been to Berlin during the 1936 Olympics, Georgie immediately notices how changed the city has become. Once a seemingly welcoming capital, Berlin is now a pure Nazi propaganda machine.

Georgie witnesses frequent attacks on the Jew population and her heart aches for them, as she's in no position to help them all. But she's determined to get at least one family safely out of Germany and, although not very thrilled about it, uses whatever means she has at her disposal to accomplish it, including an SS officer, Kasper who climbs the ranks quickly and loses a bit of his humanity with each promotion.

This is the first book I read by Mandy Robotham and I was amazed by the vivid details and storytelling. It's easy to believe you're really there.

Kasper was the most interesting character and in a way it's a shame we saw so little of him. I wish it could've turned out differently...if only he was one of the good ones.

Max was annoying throughout and it was pretty clear in which direction his romantic life was heading from the get go, but at least he got tolerable near the end.

Georgie was likable and brave, even though she acted more like a spy and less like a journalist, but that was fun. I'm sad she didn't get to uncover a huge operation but it turned out well either way.

The Ansels were all very sweet and they got their well deserved happy ending. If they hadn't I'd be very upset right now.

The book just kept moving and there wasn't a single dull moment. I don't think I would've minded if it was even longer. The epilogue did mellow out the fast-paced ending though, that was nice.

I don't think I can say any more without giving things away so go read The Berlin Girl now, you won't regret it.

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*

Berlin, 1938: Germany is on the brink of war. When fledglingreporter Georgie Young is posted to Berlin alsonside fellow Londoner Max Spender, she knows they are entering the eye of the storm. Arriving in a city swathed in red flags and crawling with Nazi, Georgie feels helpless when witnessing innocent people being dragged from their homes. But when Georgie and Max dig deeper, they soon discover the unspeakable truth about Hitler's Germany.

The story is set in the lead up to World War II in Berlin as part of the Foregin War Corp. She is accompanied by fellow journalists Max Spender. The story gets dark and intense the more the story progresses. Georgie is a strong and likabke character. She also has a strong bond with Max. This is a beautifully written story that pulled me in quickly and I didnt want to put it down. This is a heartwrencing read.

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I would like to thank #NetGalley, #AvonBooksUK and the author #MandyRobtham for my ARC in exchange for an honest review l

I am, admittedly, a historical fiction junkie, especially with books surrounding World War 2, so when I saw this on NetGalley, I knew I had to request it. Georgina, aka George, finds herself in Berlin in 1938, right before the onset of war, as a newspaper reporter. This book was the historical fiction book I didn't know I needed. I have read a lot of WW2 books, but never one focused on the lead-up to the war. Georgie and her reporter friends, find themselves in situations that they never anticipated, and you can tell the topic was thoroughly researched by the author. I appreciated the insight into Germany before the war, and found myself enthralled from the beginning, especially by the great cast of characters surrounding Georgie in Berlin.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC of this book!

A naïve Georgie Young, newly arrived in Berlin from London in 1938, reporter for the Chronicle, joined her colleagues from papers around the world as they reported news from Germany that many wouldn’t believe. Hitler’s wrath was escalating, the Nazis and SS were in full view as well as the Stormtroopers keeping watch on the streets. To Georgie’s horror, Jews were in the line of fire, with her friend and driver Rubin Amsel and his family in dreadful danger. Along with colleague Max Spender, also from London and the rest of the press pack, they always had each other’s backs, staying together, keeping each other safe. But when one of their good friends, a reporter from the US, was kicked out of Germany because of his honest words, Georgie knew war was getting closer, their time was running short – and something needed to be done.

As she and Max put their lives on the line, the tensions escalated, and the race was on. Would these two people, whose only job was reporting the world news, escape the danger of a Germany that was now at war? The Nazis were a smug and determined race and wouldn’t take being bettered by mere reporters…

The Berlin Girl is my first by Mandy Robotham and it won’t be my last! What an excellent historical rendition from a completely different perspective than I’ve read before. On the spot reporters – well written characters – telling of the lead up to the declaration of war, where both charm and rage showed on the changing faces of the fanatics, with the fate of the Jews and other “undesirables” always in the nonchalant hands of Hitler and his Reich. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for my honest review.

I was provided with a copy of The Berlin Girl via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I really enjoyed this book. I love reading about World War II from different perspectives, and The Berlin Girl delivered for me. The story is centered around Georgie, a female correspondent stationed in Berlin in the year before the war. We meet some really interesting members of the press from across the world, most notably Max, with whom Georgie initially has a contentious relationship. We also meet the Ansels, a Jewish family, who have a tragic, but ultimately happy journey. I think the most interesting character is Kasper, a German SS officer who eventually plays a pivotal role in everyone’s lives. The author did a great job of showing Kasper’s growth as an evil, sadistic officer who delighted in destroying people.

Mandy Robothem really brought pre-war Berlin to life. She so vividly described the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells that it was easy to place oneself in the city. She also conveyed the mood - of the characters and the city - perfectly. The Berlin Girl has a perfect mix of drama and anxiety.

Finally, I was really intrigued by and interested in reading about the Nazi propaganda machine. Seeing how obviously false the information from press conferences was, and the reporters knew it, is totally mind-boggling. I think the propaganda machine is one of the most unbelievable things about the war.

Overall, I would absolutely recommend The Berlin Girl. It is very well-written and interesting to the end.

Historical fiction at its best!

It is a real departure from the WW2 books I read before as it is set in Berlin prior to the war being declared and that alone makes it stand out.

In this novel, we follow Georgie Young, a British reporter who travels to Berlin as the war is looming to give an account of what is happening on the ground.

It's actually hard to review without revealing anything so all I'll say is that's it's an excellent novel which is also full of tenderness, love and selflessness. I really loved Georgie and the friends she made along the way, they really made it all more bearable.

Without spoiling, I also found the epilogue to be very smartly done, you'll have to read it to find out!!

Heather Morris fans, I think you would love this book💓

Thank you to @Netgalley and @avon_books for this e-book in return for my honest review.

A must read for anyone in love with world war 2 novels! Very heartbreaking but it kept me on my toes.

I loved The Berlin Girl. The book is set in Germany, just before the onset of World War 2. Georgie Young is a female reporter, hoping to make a name for herself. She has been sent to Germany on assignment, and soon finds herself ensconced in the community, trying her best to do what's right in her position.

There is intrigue, suspense, and romance, but also loss and heartache. The author did a great job of making you feel as though you were there with the characters, hoping that good things would come for them.

I would recommend this book, particularly if you are interested in that period of history. It is a different perspective than you often hear, and worth a read.

Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

After reading The German Midwife, I was super keen to read the The Berlin Girl and it certain didn’t disappoint.

I really enjoy Mandy Robotham’s writing style, she certainly has a knack of drawing you in to the story. I felt it was well researched and

She writes wonderful relatable characters which you become quite invested in.

Thank you to Netgalley, Mandy Robotham and Avon Books UK for giving me the chance to read and review this book as it was a wonderful read and one I will definitely recommend to lovers of Historical Fiction.

It started a little slow for me, but I am glad I kept going. I am a lover of WW II books, and this did not disappoint. Different than most of the common plot lines, Mandy Robotham is really a great storyteller. After you finish this, be sure to pick up The German Midwife!