Ein Neues Geschenk (A New Gift)
The Munich Girl by Phyllis Edgerly Ring – oh wow, oh wow, oh wow! What to say? A truly marvellous historical novel that really brings the past alive.
The timeline alternates between 1995 America and 1930’s/40’s Germany, as a character delves into her mother’s past. Using photographs, artefacts and diary entries, the past is pieced together.
The novel explores Eva Braun. Phyllis Edgerly Ring creates a fully rounded 3D personality bringing Eva to life. The flat character appearing in the background of Hitler becomes a living, breathing woman. It was fascinating getting to know Eva and I really liked her.
There was so much more to Eva Braun than just a pretty young woman infatuated with the Fuhrer. The reader becomes intimately acquainted with her. We see her strength of character that defies the Fuhrer’s commands which contrasts with the meekness as she awaits his wishes.
Other women in the novel are this curious blend of immense strength and meekness. “I had to do the right thing, so he wouldn’t stop loving me.” The desire to be loved motivates action.
Family is important. Family ties reach down the ages. Little things like miles and years will not break the bonds.
The novel shows awakenings. Awakenings to who we are in our search to belong.
1930’s and 40’s Germany was a terrible place to live. People were in fear and terror daily, not knowing whom they could trust. Good people placed their lives on the line to help others.
Phyllis Edgerly Ring is a marvellous author. In her characterisation of Hitler, she has unearthed a human side. As a historian and very passionate about WWII, Hitler and the Holocaust, I have only ever viewed Hitler as a raving, egotistical monster. My head is full of images of Hitler’s speeches full of hatred and anger, so to even be able to portray a man behind the name, is truly incredible to me.
Thank you Phyllis Edgerly Ring for an absolutely gripping, absorbing and truly fascinating book. I just could not put The Munich Girl down. I loved the inclusion of photographs of Eva Braun to head up the chapters too.
An absolutely brilliant read bringing history to life.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own. I also entered a competition on The Book Gobbler to win a copy of the book.
JULIA WILSON