A View Across the Rooftops: An epic, heart-wrenching and gripping World War Two historical novel

Just how far from the known do things have to descend to before you take a stance and find a courage you never knew you had? Such is the case for the characters in this book, from the reticent and keep to himself professor, to the administrative assistant at the university, a young Jewish student in love with a Dutch girl who could never forget him…. This was not a story of people who decided to become people fighting against the Germans and the rise of despicable acts in their beloved city of Amsterdam – but they were more poignant for their sudden decisions to take a stand, even when every instinct is screaming for self-preservation. Starting with Josef Held, a professor of mathematics who has kept himself ‘removed’ from people and interactions since his wife’s death some years earlier. Recently, with all of the changes from the occupation, he’s been intrigued by his interest in Hannah Pender – the administrative assistant at the university, and frustrated with Michael Blum, a Jewish student who is noted for being a very reluctant student, also very in love with a young Dutch girl, Elke. But the Nazis are tightening their hold – from confiscating his wireless to taking an elderly neighbor into custody to places unknown, and he’s trying simply to survive the onslaught. His only family is a niece, brought to him after her parent’s death as a child, and now involved with a Nazi officer, bringing Josef no end of worry. Hannah takes care of her infirm mother, who spends much of her time knitting caps for ‘the boys’ who will be cold in the coming months. She’s also friendly with a Jewish family, and the young daughter spends hours with her mother, learning to knit and sharing her worries. Hannah would like to hide the family away – but her position and her mother’s need for care have her in a bind. She’s also wondering why Professor Held runs so hot and cold, when she’s only tried to have conversations. The two have much in common – that they won’t see for ages – but the connection from the university will serve them both during the long years of occupation. When Michael appears at Held’s doorway after his best friend is shot, Josef decides that enough is enough – and sets him up in his attic – the only view is over the rooftops. Despite the dangers, Michael is full of life, daring and imagination – frustrated by being ‘caged’ and worried for Elke – but alive. Alive in ways that Josef has forgotten – but this connection will bring the two closer together and encourage Josef’s return to a life lived with joy. As Hannah’s story progresses, her father’s shed, where he built and repaired bicycles becomes her refuge- from healing a wounded allied soldier and seeing him smuggled away, to building bicycles and finally being a part of the resistance delivering bicycles and packages, and finding her own simple and quiet ways to resist and help those she cares for. This isn’t a story that focuses on the atrocities of the war in a general way -but more the small moments, the emotions and the events that changed Josef and Hannah, along with Michael, Elke and Josef’s niece – and gives a sold sense of the atmosphere and the changes it brought under the brutal occupation. I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would. From the first moment I started reading the story, I could not stop. I was captured by the story and the characters. Descriptions made me feel like I was right there and surrounded by events and people. The dust, smells, pain and emotions were felt as I turned each page. This is a story of intense dedication of people who cared deeply for others. Amidst turmoil, death and fear of the unknown, friendships and love win out. Author Suzanne Kelman has written another great story. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

A wonderful story. I really like I knew these people by the time the book was done. Happy endings for some. Sorrowful endings for others. I spent much of the last bit worrying about Josef, Michael, and Hannah. Don't read the end without a handkerchief or tissues.