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The Vienna Writers Circle
A gripping and powerful tale of resilience and courage set in Vienna on the brink of WWII, as two members of Freud’s Circle try to keep themselves and their loved ones safe as the SS closes in.
Spring, 1938 : Café Mozart in the heart of Vienna is beloved by its clientele, including cousins Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal. The two writers are as close as brothers. They are also members of Freud’s Circle—a unique group of the famed psychiatrist’s friends and acquaintances who once gathered regularly at the bright and airy café to talk about books and ideas over coffee and pastries. But dark days are looming.
With Hitler’s annexation of Austria, Nazi edicts governing daily life become stricter and more punitive. Now Hitler has demanded that the “hidden Jews” of Vienna be tracked down, and Freud’s Circle has been targeted. The SS aims to use old group photos to identify Jewish intellectuals and subversives. With the vise tightening around them, Mathias and Johannes’s only option appears to be hiding in plain sight, using assumed names and identities to evade detection, aware that discovery would mean consignment to a camp or execution.
Faced with stark and desperate choices, Mathias, Johannes, their families and friends all find their loyalties and courage tested in unimaginable ways. But despite betrayal, heartache and imprisonment, hope remains, and with it, the determination to keep those they love alive, and Mathias and Johannes at the same time discovering that what originally condemned them—their writing—might also be their salvation.
Spring, 1938 : Café Mozart in the heart of Vienna is beloved by its clientele, including cousins Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal. The two writers are as close as brothers. They are also members of Freud’s Circle—a unique group of the famed psychiatrist’s friends and acquaintances who once gathered regularly at the bright and airy café to talk about books and ideas over coffee and pastries. But dark days are looming.
With Hitler’s annexation of Austria, Nazi edicts governing daily life become stricter and more punitive. Now Hitler has demanded that the “hidden Jews” of Vienna be tracked down, and Freud’s Circle has been targeted. The SS aims to use old group photos to identify Jewish intellectuals and subversives. With the vise tightening around them, Mathias and Johannes’s only option appears to be hiding in plain sight, using assumed names and identities to evade detection, aware that discovery would mean consignment to a camp or execution.
Faced with stark and desperate choices, Mathias, Johannes, their families and friends all find their loyalties and courage tested in unimaginable ways. But despite betrayal, heartache and imprisonment, hope remains, and with it, the determination to keep those they love alive, and Mathias and Johannes at the same time discovering that what originally condemned them—their writing—might also be their salvation.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published February 14, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
April 12, 2023
Café Mozart, Vienna in 1938 was the place where Sigmund Freud and his circle of friends and acquaintances had always came together to chat about their writing, among other things. The ideas thrown around were helpful; the friendships ongoing. But now that the Germans were taking over Vienna, those friends knew to keep away, to destroy photos and anything pertaining to those with Jewish ancestry. Cousins Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal continued to meet, often with their publisher Julian. When Freud's Circle was targeted by the SS, they were determined to find those Jews who hid behind marriage, their spouse's Catholic religion. The plan Mathias, Johannes and Julian came up with was a daring one, but one which would keep them with their families. The surgery to alter their looks, the paperwork (forged) to change their names, the family's move, was meticulous. But both men knew if they were discovered, it would likely mean execution.
SS officer Heinrich Schnabel was dogged in his pursuit of Freud's contacts, to the stage of not letting his superiors know what he was doing. Mathias and Johannes both, at different times, saw Schnabel and hoped he hadn't recognised them. But the noose was tightening. Would they succeed in their efforts to evade capture?
The Vienna Writers Circle by J.C. Maetis is a well-written historical, told in the voices of Mathias and Johannes, and the local policeman, Josef. I found myself confused once the men's (and their wives and children's) names changed, so much so that I ended up just going with the flow, because it was a struggle to figure out who things were happening to. A great read though, which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
SS officer Heinrich Schnabel was dogged in his pursuit of Freud's contacts, to the stage of not letting his superiors know what he was doing. Mathias and Johannes both, at different times, saw Schnabel and hoped he hadn't recognised them. But the noose was tightening. Would they succeed in their efforts to evade capture?
The Vienna Writers Circle by J.C. Maetis is a well-written historical, told in the voices of Mathias and Johannes, and the local policeman, Josef. I found myself confused once the men's (and their wives and children's) names changed, so much so that I ended up just going with the flow, because it was a struggle to figure out who things were happening to. A great read though, which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2023
Café Mozart is the middle of Vienna, here cousins Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal meet their literary agent Julian Reisner, they write crime thrillers, the men discuss the book market and what’s happening in the war. The three men are members of Freud’s Circle, a group of scientists, philosophers, psychiatrists, mathematicians and authors who hold secret gatherings.
When Hitler invades Austria, he joins Austria and Germany and it becomes an Anschiuss and despite this being a clear violation of the Treaty of Versailles. Heinrich Schnabel is an SS officer and he’s in charge of finding “hidden Jews” and members of the Freud’s Circle in Vienna. Everyone in the circle have been instructed to destroy photos, as the Germans could use them to identify Jewish academics and anyone listed as troublemakers.
Mathias, Johannes and their families have no choice but to take drastic measures, they move, change their names and identities and hide in plain sight. This takes incredible courage and nerves of steel, one simple mistake could mean being sent to a concentration camp or being interrogated and executed. Despite taking every precaution and covering their tracks, eventually Heinrich Schnabel discovers one of the cousins true identities, and he finds himself aboard a cattle train and bound for a concentration camp.
I received a digital copy of The Vienna Writers Circle by J. C. Maetis from NetGalley and Penguin General UK in exchange for an honest review. At the time, ten percent of Austria’s population had some Jewish blood running through their veins, like the characters of Mathias and Johannes and they did everything they could to hide this. They sold their homes and assets prior to Anschiuss, had false identification papers made and changed their names, moved to another suburb, and some Jewish people resorted to having facial surgery. The narrative focuses not only on the bond between the cousins, you discover just how many laws and changes the Germans introduced after the 13th of March 1938 and how they targeted Gypsies.
A well written and interesting historical fiction novel about Vienna and the links the group and men had to Sigmund Freud the famous neurologist, it’s a story about war, betrayal, imprisonment and percussion, greed and how being a published author was like having a double edged sword. Five stars from me, a historical mystery and with a gripping, cleverly orchestrated and unpredictable plot.
When Hitler invades Austria, he joins Austria and Germany and it becomes an Anschiuss and despite this being a clear violation of the Treaty of Versailles. Heinrich Schnabel is an SS officer and he’s in charge of finding “hidden Jews” and members of the Freud’s Circle in Vienna. Everyone in the circle have been instructed to destroy photos, as the Germans could use them to identify Jewish academics and anyone listed as troublemakers.
Mathias, Johannes and their families have no choice but to take drastic measures, they move, change their names and identities and hide in plain sight. This takes incredible courage and nerves of steel, one simple mistake could mean being sent to a concentration camp or being interrogated and executed. Despite taking every precaution and covering their tracks, eventually Heinrich Schnabel discovers one of the cousins true identities, and he finds himself aboard a cattle train and bound for a concentration camp.
I received a digital copy of The Vienna Writers Circle by J. C. Maetis from NetGalley and Penguin General UK in exchange for an honest review. At the time, ten percent of Austria’s population had some Jewish blood running through their veins, like the characters of Mathias and Johannes and they did everything they could to hide this. They sold their homes and assets prior to Anschiuss, had false identification papers made and changed their names, moved to another suburb, and some Jewish people resorted to having facial surgery. The narrative focuses not only on the bond between the cousins, you discover just how many laws and changes the Germans introduced after the 13th of March 1938 and how they targeted Gypsies.
A well written and interesting historical fiction novel about Vienna and the links the group and men had to Sigmund Freud the famous neurologist, it’s a story about war, betrayal, imprisonment and percussion, greed and how being a published author was like having a double edged sword. Five stars from me, a historical mystery and with a gripping, cleverly orchestrated and unpredictable plot.
March 27, 2023
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THE VIENNA WRITERS CIRCLE by J.C. Maetis is an incredibly intense historical fiction that kept me unnerved and on the edge of my seat through most of the book. This book is not for the faint of heart and describes scenes of man’s inhumanity to man is a stark way through the lens of two Jewish thriller writers in Vienna during WWII.
Cousins Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal are thriller writers and members of famed psychiatrist Sigmund Freud’s Circle; intellectuals who meet at the Mozart Café to discuss books and current ideas on a variety of topics. When the Germans annex Austria, Freud is able to leave for England, but others must find their own ways to leave the country, hide under fake identities or be rounded up and deported to a concentration camp or be executed.
Mathias and Johannes are faced with anguishing choices to protect their families and friends. With the continual pursuit of an ambitious and sadistic SS officer and the constant fear of their true identities being revealed, their writing may be what ultimately saves them.
This book is a stark look at the daily terrorism faced by these two main characters and what they did to survive. I found the story more intriguing and disturbing because it is told only through the victims’ eyes. There are not a lot of breaks from the intensity of the plot pace and I found I had to put this book down a few times, not because it is not good, but to calm down emotionally. The research is evident and the characters memorable.
I highly recommend this WWII historical fiction!
THE VIENNA WRITERS CIRCLE by J.C. Maetis is an incredibly intense historical fiction that kept me unnerved and on the edge of my seat through most of the book. This book is not for the faint of heart and describes scenes of man’s inhumanity to man is a stark way through the lens of two Jewish thriller writers in Vienna during WWII.
Cousins Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal are thriller writers and members of famed psychiatrist Sigmund Freud’s Circle; intellectuals who meet at the Mozart Café to discuss books and current ideas on a variety of topics. When the Germans annex Austria, Freud is able to leave for England, but others must find their own ways to leave the country, hide under fake identities or be rounded up and deported to a concentration camp or be executed.
Mathias and Johannes are faced with anguishing choices to protect their families and friends. With the continual pursuit of an ambitious and sadistic SS officer and the constant fear of their true identities being revealed, their writing may be what ultimately saves them.
This book is a stark look at the daily terrorism faced by these two main characters and what they did to survive. I found the story more intriguing and disturbing because it is told only through the victims’ eyes. There are not a lot of breaks from the intensity of the plot pace and I found I had to put this book down a few times, not because it is not good, but to calm down emotionally. The research is evident and the characters memorable.
I highly recommend this WWII historical fiction!
June 5, 2023
When I first found this book at the library, I was so excited to read and I was not disappointed.
The story of Sigmund Freud’s experience during the Second World War is a lesser known story; all anyone really knows is that he was able to flee to Switzerland, safe from Nazi persecution. What’s even more lesser known are the stories of the people he interacted with, who he befriended.
This is that story and it was wonderfully told. Intriguing and compelling, this book details the stories and the journeys of those that thought differently from the Nazi ideologies and thus were criminals because of that.
Out of everyone, I hope that Meisel got a happy ending, he was an amazing character. Screw Schnabel… I’m glad he’s dead.
The story of Sigmund Freud’s experience during the Second World War is a lesser known story; all anyone really knows is that he was able to flee to Switzerland, safe from Nazi persecution. What’s even more lesser known are the stories of the people he interacted with, who he befriended.
This is that story and it was wonderfully told. Intriguing and compelling, this book details the stories and the journeys of those that thought differently from the Nazi ideologies and thus were criminals because of that.
Out of everyone, I hope that Meisel got a happy ending, he was an amazing character. Screw Schnabel… I’m glad he’s dead.
February 18, 2022
Писателят пише, за да оцелее: http://knigolandia.info/book-review/p...
В къси и динамични глави, започващи или с цитати от големия психоаналитик за тъмните страни на човешката природа, или с откъси от Нюрнбергските закони, Маетис проследява съдбата на двамина писатели, при това братовчеди: Матиас и Йоханес. Те не са от известните писатели, дори обратно, пишат лековати кримки, но с това издържат своите семейства, докато еврейската им кръв не ги поставя на прицел. Още от първите дни на Аншлуса животът им се променя, а в помощ са им само литературният им агент и един добронамерен полицай, който има своята тъмна тайна – влюбен е в красавица с циганска кръв, която се представя за испанка.
Софтпрес
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/p...
В къси и динамични глави, започващи или с цитати от големия психоаналитик за тъмните страни на човешката природа, или с откъси от Нюрнбергските закони, Маетис проследява съдбата на двамина писатели, при това братовчеди: Матиас и Йоханес. Те не са от известните писатели, дори обратно, пишат лековати кримки, но с това издържат своите семейства, докато еврейската им кръв не ги поставя на прицел. Още от първите дни на Аншлуса животът им се променя, а в помощ са им само литературният им агент и един добронамерен полицай, който има своята тъмна тайна – влюбен е в красавица с циганска кръв, която се представя за испанка.
Софтпрес
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/p...
January 18, 2023
The Vienna Writers Circle … belonging to it is a death sentence.
I’m thoroughly impressed with author J.C. Maetis’ (John Matthews) ‘The Vienna Writers Circle.’ It’s refreshingly different. Not only is it a Sigmund Freud Holocaust story, but it’s also a chronological timeline (except for the prologue), features a group of well-known intellectuals, rather than traditional resistance fighters or concentration camp experiences and examines the impact of Anschluss on the mischlings (mixed ancestry), Roma families, and Austrian Catholics rather than focusing solely on Jews.
This book follows two authors, their literary agent and a police inspector and explores how although their writing condemned them initially, it has the potential to save them.
Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal are crime novelists, cousins and members of Sigmund Freud’s ‘Circle,’ a group composed of writers, mathematicians, intellectuals and psychiatrists who meet to share ideas. One day when they are having coffee, SS officer Heinrich Schnabel enters the cafe with a demand that changes their lives forever.
I was immediately caught up in the tension created by the demand and my heart rate increased each time Schnabel entered a scene. He truly was a relentless man and I felt the fear. I appreciated that this tension was counter-balanced by (1) an against-all-odds romance between a police inspector and a Romani-gypsy woman and (2) an undercover identity-changing operation. The police inspector continued to walk the grey area between serving the occupying force and acknowledging his morals/obligations in upholding the law. His actions were courageous considering how much he had at stake.
I felt that the focus on the two writers added a level of humanity to the novel and loved that it was ‘words’ that saved them on more than one occasion. The simple fact of belonging to this elite group, the inner Circle, was ironic. The fame the inner circle members achieved made them targets and while their books were burned, their connections and their craft offered them options that ordinary people did have. I had never before considered that obtaining a new identity was an option…and why not?! The undercover operation and the tension it added to the story were fabulous. Finally, I appreciated Freud’s quotes introducing each chapter and the lack of spoon-feeding by the author. I loved being prompted to research countless times during this book.
While I did feel that there was a missing ingredient that I can’t put my finger on, I did note that I felt I was sitting at Cafe Mozart with the Circle members and listening while they recalled their Anschluss experiences. Having been to Cafe Mozart and another coffee house that Freud allegedly frequented, I noted the coffee house culture and the importance of the Austrian cultural heritage. This book has that feel.
Congratulations on a fantastic cover! One of the best I’ve seen.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I’m thoroughly impressed with author J.C. Maetis’ (John Matthews) ‘The Vienna Writers Circle.’ It’s refreshingly different. Not only is it a Sigmund Freud Holocaust story, but it’s also a chronological timeline (except for the prologue), features a group of well-known intellectuals, rather than traditional resistance fighters or concentration camp experiences and examines the impact of Anschluss on the mischlings (mixed ancestry), Roma families, and Austrian Catholics rather than focusing solely on Jews.
This book follows two authors, their literary agent and a police inspector and explores how although their writing condemned them initially, it has the potential to save them.
Mathias Kraemer and Johannes Namal are crime novelists, cousins and members of Sigmund Freud’s ‘Circle,’ a group composed of writers, mathematicians, intellectuals and psychiatrists who meet to share ideas. One day when they are having coffee, SS officer Heinrich Schnabel enters the cafe with a demand that changes their lives forever.
I was immediately caught up in the tension created by the demand and my heart rate increased each time Schnabel entered a scene. He truly was a relentless man and I felt the fear. I appreciated that this tension was counter-balanced by (1) an against-all-odds romance between a police inspector and a Romani-gypsy woman and (2) an undercover identity-changing operation. The police inspector continued to walk the grey area between serving the occupying force and acknowledging his morals/obligations in upholding the law. His actions were courageous considering how much he had at stake.
I felt that the focus on the two writers added a level of humanity to the novel and loved that it was ‘words’ that saved them on more than one occasion. The simple fact of belonging to this elite group, the inner Circle, was ironic. The fame the inner circle members achieved made them targets and while their books were burned, their connections and their craft offered them options that ordinary people did have. I had never before considered that obtaining a new identity was an option…and why not?! The undercover operation and the tension it added to the story were fabulous. Finally, I appreciated Freud’s quotes introducing each chapter and the lack of spoon-feeding by the author. I loved being prompted to research countless times during this book.
While I did feel that there was a missing ingredient that I can’t put my finger on, I did note that I felt I was sitting at Cafe Mozart with the Circle members and listening while they recalled their Anschluss experiences. Having been to Cafe Mozart and another coffee house that Freud allegedly frequented, I noted the coffee house culture and the importance of the Austrian cultural heritage. This book has that feel.
Congratulations on a fantastic cover! One of the best I’ve seen.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
November 29, 2021
"Писателят" от Дж. С. Маетис е завладяващ роман за последиците от присъединяването на Австрия към хитлеристка Германия. Разказ от първо лице за погазването на изконни права и омаловажаването на човешкия живот, за обездушаването на едно общество и унищожителната сила на омразата, за инстинкта за оцеляване и самосъхранение, за жертвоготовността, на която сме способни в името на хората, които обичаме. Напрегнат, динамичен, изпълнен с редица обрати, "Писателят" е и роман за човешката съвест - за нейното изкривяване под ефекта на пропагандата и страха при едни, но и за проявата ѝ на резистентност при други, които не позволяват безнадежността и жестокостта да замъглят преценката им.
January 24, 2023
Thank for the opportunity to enjoy this title.
The Vienna Writer's Circle is a remarkable piece of writing, covering a familiar topic in an original and gripping way. The plight of the Jewish people, particularly the pressure on those who were not particularly religious or who had married out of their cultural group, is well known territory. Here the author looks at the experiences of a group of writers and intellectuals who form a social circle around Sigmund Freud, meeting in one of the famous cafes of pre war Vienna.
With the coming of Anschluss the anti-Jewish sentiment became overt and the vulnerable Jewish community had to take action to survive.
The increasing pressure upon them is demonstrated by the escalating, unreasonable regulations imposed upon them, quoted at the start of many chapters.
In this context the protagonists struggle to survive. A very exciting series of plots develop as the members of the Writers Circle and their families fight for for their lives.
This is a subtle story, where jeopardy, sinister persecution, horrible cruelty but above all the determination to survive are all vividly depicted.
A really gripping and enjoyable piece of writing. Thank you.
The Vienna Writer's Circle is a remarkable piece of writing, covering a familiar topic in an original and gripping way. The plight of the Jewish people, particularly the pressure on those who were not particularly religious or who had married out of their cultural group, is well known territory. Here the author looks at the experiences of a group of writers and intellectuals who form a social circle around Sigmund Freud, meeting in one of the famous cafes of pre war Vienna.
With the coming of Anschluss the anti-Jewish sentiment became overt and the vulnerable Jewish community had to take action to survive.
The increasing pressure upon them is demonstrated by the escalating, unreasonable regulations imposed upon them, quoted at the start of many chapters.
In this context the protagonists struggle to survive. A very exciting series of plots develop as the members of the Writers Circle and their families fight for for their lives.
This is a subtle story, where jeopardy, sinister persecution, horrible cruelty but above all the determination to survive are all vividly depicted.
A really gripping and enjoyable piece of writing. Thank you.
February 9, 2023
The story, set in Vienna around the time of WWII, centres around two writers, a literary agent and a police inspector. They are a group friends who meet at the Café Mozart because it is out of the way and less likely to attract the attention of the SS guards that patrol the streets. The rise of the Nazi’s makes times uncertain for Jewish people and those that have connections to anyone that The Reich deems ‘undesirable.’ Each of the four friends fall in to one of these groups.
It is a time of fear, a time of sacrifice and a time of doing whatever it takes to keep you and your family alive. Each of the men will be tested. Will they be up to the test?
The characters are well rounded and the author manages to create the atmosphere of menace that hangs over Vienna and more especially the death camps. The subject matter means that the story can be quite dark at times but out of that darkness comes hope.
I hadn’t known about the identity change programme that plays a large part in the book so I found that very interesting. If I am going to be hyper critical, I thought that the ending was a bit rushed though all the loose ends were tied up. This will not detract from my rating because I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It is a time of fear, a time of sacrifice and a time of doing whatever it takes to keep you and your family alive. Each of the men will be tested. Will they be up to the test?
The characters are well rounded and the author manages to create the atmosphere of menace that hangs over Vienna and more especially the death camps. The subject matter means that the story can be quite dark at times but out of that darkness comes hope.
I hadn’t known about the identity change programme that plays a large part in the book so I found that very interesting. If I am going to be hyper critical, I thought that the ending was a bit rushed though all the loose ends were tied up. This will not detract from my rating because I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2024
The book I’m reading is called “The Vienna writers circle” by J.C. Maetis. This is based on a true story, the author’s father’s extended family, however most of his extended family lost in the Holocaust in Lithuania in 1941, which this book is a tribute to them. I thoroughly enjoyed reading a long page, no more than 764 pages took me three days to finish. I must say this is a gripping tale of love, resilience and courage where, Mathias and Johannes, a fellow writer, both cousins and close brothers, to write a book about their thrilling journey. Their story begins and meets at Cafe Mozart, as two writers rely on their storytelling and their friendship to save their lives. As a result, did the rest of writer’s circle survive or not? You can decide.
March 16, 2023
An exceptionally well-written narrative about identity change and hiding in plain sight in Vienna, 1938. Two cousins, close as brothers, and writers, Johannes and Matthias are Jewish and undesirable in the new now German controlled Austria. Anyone not pure perfect Aryan is on the cutting board, hounded, rounded up, shipped out to points unknown to the gas chamber camps or others like Dachau. The two belong to Freud's Circle, a group of scholars, authors, scientists who must now disband and escape if possible, or, like the cousins, go the identity change route in order to stay in Vienna at great risk even with some cosmetic changes and new parts of the city to live. A harrowing account of trying to be normal in a time hardly normal, trying to live day to day, work, go to school, visit family, all things Johannes and Matthias struggle with almost 24 hours a day, all to survive being taken from their children, loved ones, friends and sent to a camp to a certain death.
At the beginning of each chapter there is a quote from Freud, 'We are living in a specially remarkable period. We find to our astonishment that progress has allied itself with barbarism.' pg 29, Chapter 3 or an edict from the new order, 'All Jewish citizens, regardless of age, are to wear a yellow-star armband. The stamped letter J should also be denoted in the identity cards of all Jews. All male Jews shall add Israel to their names and all female Jews Sarah.' pg 351 Chapter 53. Pause for thought before reading. Horrific, heart-breaking scenes yet the incidents of bravery between Matthias, Johannes, their friend Josef, Deya, Julian and fellow prisoners Jan and Rina are heart-lifting and offer hope, hope for a better, far better future once the war is ended. There is good news as the pages turn to the ending and the cousins are agreed, 'it was difficult to think of our survival as anything other than a triumph.' pg 410.
The Vienna Writers Circle is well-paced, a page turner as the chapters fly by and with heart in mouth the reader really wants to see all the principal characters emerge safe as this unspeakable chapter in world history is shelved. Maetis is a fine, fine writer and brings identity change to the fore and highlights the extreme wickedness of the SS.
Do read the author note, another eye-opener.
At the beginning of each chapter there is a quote from Freud, 'We are living in a specially remarkable period. We find to our astonishment that progress has allied itself with barbarism.' pg 29, Chapter 3 or an edict from the new order, 'All Jewish citizens, regardless of age, are to wear a yellow-star armband. The stamped letter J should also be denoted in the identity cards of all Jews. All male Jews shall add Israel to their names and all female Jews Sarah.' pg 351 Chapter 53. Pause for thought before reading. Horrific, heart-breaking scenes yet the incidents of bravery between Matthias, Johannes, their friend Josef, Deya, Julian and fellow prisoners Jan and Rina are heart-lifting and offer hope, hope for a better, far better future once the war is ended. There is good news as the pages turn to the ending and the cousins are agreed, 'it was difficult to think of our survival as anything other than a triumph.' pg 410.
The Vienna Writers Circle is well-paced, a page turner as the chapters fly by and with heart in mouth the reader really wants to see all the principal characters emerge safe as this unspeakable chapter in world history is shelved. Maetis is a fine, fine writer and brings identity change to the fore and highlights the extreme wickedness of the SS.
Do read the author note, another eye-opener.
March 22, 2023
Set between the years of 1938 and 1945, The Vienna Writers Circle is a very interesting book. It is very realistic and pulls on the emotions. The author's research is excellent, displaying an in-depth knowledge about the plight of the Jewish people during the Second World War.
The novel is different to a lot of other war themed books, in that it concentrates upon the lives of writers during a turbulent period in history, as well as having a unique setting.. It does not flinch from telling the truth about the horrors inflicted by the Nazis.
The circle of writers in Austria included Sigmund Freud, whose own life and that of his family were also at the mercy of the Germans. His circle of friends became the main characters in the novel, who displayed heroism and courage in their bid to stay one step ahead, often taking drastic measures. Relationships came under scrutiny, as mixed marriages were threatened, tearing families apart, and people who were once friends, became the enemy.
The murder of an SS Officer brought an additional twist to the plot, as it descended into a nightmare, with the end result being of survival. There are several disturbing passages in the story, which may not be for the faint-hearted. However, the intensity of the plot keeps the reader gripped throughout the novel.
The book would appeal to readers interested in the writing and intellectual movement in Vienna at the time, coupled with the development of the war. It is a captivating and educational read!
I have been happy to review this book for NetGalley.
The novel is different to a lot of other war themed books, in that it concentrates upon the lives of writers during a turbulent period in history, as well as having a unique setting.. It does not flinch from telling the truth about the horrors inflicted by the Nazis.
The circle of writers in Austria included Sigmund Freud, whose own life and that of his family were also at the mercy of the Germans. His circle of friends became the main characters in the novel, who displayed heroism and courage in their bid to stay one step ahead, often taking drastic measures. Relationships came under scrutiny, as mixed marriages were threatened, tearing families apart, and people who were once friends, became the enemy.
The murder of an SS Officer brought an additional twist to the plot, as it descended into a nightmare, with the end result being of survival. There are several disturbing passages in the story, which may not be for the faint-hearted. However, the intensity of the plot keeps the reader gripped throughout the novel.
The book would appeal to readers interested in the writing and intellectual movement in Vienna at the time, coupled with the development of the war. It is a captivating and educational read!
I have been happy to review this book for NetGalley.
November 3, 2023
In November, I decided to choose stories by title, without reading the blurb, which often keeps us from discovering new books we would never otherwise start reading.
So I ended up with “Circle”, which was not what I expected & managed to surprise me.
It's historical fiction with a shadow over the fictional part that makes it hard to tell where reality is.
There’s even my favorite setting, the café in Vienna, but from a different angle. It’s 1938. Two writers, their lit agent & a police inspector meet in a circle to talk about their writing. But the WWII happens. Jews. Nazis.
It's not the theme I enjoy reading about. There are also some confusing & dark parts, but! The story strikes a chord and is relevant to today's situation. 4 stars.
So I ended up with “Circle”, which was not what I expected & managed to surprise me.
It's historical fiction with a shadow over the fictional part that makes it hard to tell where reality is.
There’s even my favorite setting, the café in Vienna, but from a different angle. It’s 1938. Two writers, their lit agent & a police inspector meet in a circle to talk about their writing. But the WWII happens. Jews. Nazis.
It's not the theme I enjoy reading about. There are also some confusing & dark parts, but! The story strikes a chord and is relevant to today's situation. 4 stars.
August 10, 2024
While this book was immensely stressful most of the time and a tough read, I do think it was very good with an excellent story and characters. The author’s note at the end explains why some aspects play out as they do, so it’s worth a read as well. I’d be interested to read from this author again, but perhaps not another WWII book.
March 7, 2023
The Vienna Writer's Circle concerns friends of Sigmund Freud in Vienna who happen to be both writers and of Jewish descent in 1938, at the time when Vienna became an extension of Hitler's attempts to build his Aryan nation. Mathias and Johannes and their families try to circumvent and fly under Hitler's SS and Gestapo soldiers' radar as long as they can, going to extremes to hide their identities and protect their families. They move residences, sell property, deny their heritage, change their names, and even undergo facial reconstruction surgery to create new identities all in order to remain in Vienna as long as they can. But when one particularly persistent SS officer takes an interest in uncovering their real identities, Mathias and Johannes find themselves in impossible situations, facing the all-too-real prospect of Hitler's death camps.
I really enjoyed this book with its vivid characters and the daunting choices they face with heroism and ingenuity, employing their resources as best they can. The glimpse at Nazi-occupied Vienna is disappointing and a new view of Hitler's worldbuilding for me as, though I knew of Vienna's proximity to Germany, I was relatively ignorant of its complicity with the Reich. I read extensively about WWII and as a result find it fascinating to continue to discover things I was unaware of despite my extensive reading.
I recommend The Vienna Writers Circle for readers of WWII and Holocaust historical fiction.
I really enjoyed this book with its vivid characters and the daunting choices they face with heroism and ingenuity, employing their resources as best they can. The glimpse at Nazi-occupied Vienna is disappointing and a new view of Hitler's worldbuilding for me as, though I knew of Vienna's proximity to Germany, I was relatively ignorant of its complicity with the Reich. I read extensively about WWII and as a result find it fascinating to continue to discover things I was unaware of despite my extensive reading.
I recommend The Vienna Writers Circle for readers of WWII and Holocaust historical fiction.
February 20, 2023
The Vienna Writers Circle is a haunting and complex story which deals with a sensitive subject with compassion and honesty. Two cousins are central to the tale; they’re writers and meet with others at a cafe in Vienna. They are Jewish and their situation changes when the Germans invade Austria. I’ve read numerous books about the desperate plight of the Jewish people at the hands of the Nazi regime, but none to match this. It takes a very different angle, that of hiding in plain sight with new identity. They are helped by a police chief who has a live interest with a Romani girl. Another potential victim of persecution.
The book is really well paced. It has a slow start as the characters are introduced, but the pace builds as the menace and threat increases. I found it particularly affecting because it depicts ordinary people going about their lives under threat of a totally oppressive regime. Their bravery is unimaginable and these are stories that should be imprinted in our history. It’s not always an easy read, rightly so, but it’s one that kept me engrossed.
My thanks to the publisher for a review copy via Netgalley.
The book is really well paced. It has a slow start as the characters are introduced, but the pace builds as the menace and threat increases. I found it particularly affecting because it depicts ordinary people going about their lives under threat of a totally oppressive regime. Their bravery is unimaginable and these are stories that should be imprinted in our history. It’s not always an easy read, rightly so, but it’s one that kept me engrossed.
My thanks to the publisher for a review copy via Netgalley.
February 23, 2023
The Vienna Writers Circle by J.C. Maetis is the story of what happened in Vienna after the Nazis invaded Austria. The Vienna Writers Circle is a group of writers who were friends of Sigmund Freud. Many of them were Jewish and this book does an excellent job of describing what these people had to endure because of the Nazis. This book was very suspenseful and I enjoyed reading it.
May 28, 2023
Great read - highly recommend. I enjoyed the historical information. It took a little bit to get going and it was a bit confusing when the names changed. But I was happy to see the references to both names. After about a third/half way in, it turned into a real page turner.
Overall 5 stars for me - thank you to the author and publisher for an advance copy via Goodreads.
Overall 5 stars for me - thank you to the author and publisher for an advance copy via Goodreads.
February 18, 2023
The Vienna Writers Circle by J.C Maetis
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow, I am still a bit lost for words as I’m blown away at how well written and amazing this book was to read. The perfectly places quotes from Freud or propaganda announcements of rule changes at the start of each chapter were perfect. The characters were all interesting and relatable in different ways that it was no issues switching between perspectives. I longed to know what was going on with each of them throughout the book and everything came together perfect without being predictable.
Huge thanks to the author, @netgalley and @harlequinbooks for the ARC it was fantastic.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow, I am still a bit lost for words as I’m blown away at how well written and amazing this book was to read. The perfectly places quotes from Freud or propaganda announcements of rule changes at the start of each chapter were perfect. The characters were all interesting and relatable in different ways that it was no issues switching between perspectives. I longed to know what was going on with each of them throughout the book and everything came together perfect without being predictable.
Huge thanks to the author, @netgalley and @harlequinbooks for the ARC it was fantastic.
February 19, 2023
The Vienna Writers Circle is an amazing story filled with personal elements added from the author. One of the elements i liked the most were the notes at the top of every chapter.
I think everyone should read this book, because i believe that knowing some facts make people able to resist knowingly and stronger.
I think everyone should read this book, because i believe that knowing some facts make people able to resist knowingly and stronger.
February 19, 2023
Vienna 1938, the Nazis are hunting down Jews and the members of the Vienna writers circle are trying to stay alive. A different feel from other WWII books, as it is told from the points of view of this intellectual group. A definite page-turner. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
January 22, 2023
A really riveting read that transported me to the streets of 1930/40s Vienna. The premise of blending in with fake identities rather than skipping the country is an interesting take for a wartime novel, and stands out from other Jewish literature in this genre. I appreciate the author trying something new here, and for drawing upon his own family history as inspiration.
I enjoyed the slow development of the plot in the first half and equally enjoyed the high stakes second half. I personally wasn't aware of the rapid Nazi takeover of Austria and all it involved, so this novel was eye-opening in this respect. The short chapter headers describing newly introduced anti-Semitic laws were a great way to inform readers, but not necessarily force it upon them. In some places the way characters got themselves out of difficult situations seemed a little too convenient, but I felt this could be overlooked because it didn't detract too much from the overall story, and the author managed to build suspense in all the right places (which kept me hooked to the end!)
I enjoyed the slow development of the plot in the first half and equally enjoyed the high stakes second half. I personally wasn't aware of the rapid Nazi takeover of Austria and all it involved, so this novel was eye-opening in this respect. The short chapter headers describing newly introduced anti-Semitic laws were a great way to inform readers, but not necessarily force it upon them. In some places the way characters got themselves out of difficult situations seemed a little too convenient, but I felt this could be overlooked because it didn't detract too much from the overall story, and the author managed to build suspense in all the right places (which kept me hooked to the end!)
March 31, 2023
I’m sad to say that this book fell far short of my expectations. I won’t give a detailed review, as I feel it would be disrespectful to the author. Suffice to say that for me this novel romanticized a very dark period of Vienna’s history, with all the main characters emerging more or less unscathed, despite their ordeals. While I accept that this is a work of fiction, I would have preferred a more accurate representation of the facts. This, combined with the inaccurate use of the German language, left me unable to take the author seriously. . That said, I’m sure he will find his audience in readers looking for more escapist fiction.
February 1, 2023
Thanks for the opportunity to read this fabulous book, captivating from beginning to end can highly recommend.
January 29, 2023
This book is incredible. I'm not sure I have words to descirbe it. The short chapters I like because it keeps my attention but even at the character point of view changes you know whose point of view it is. You can feel the feelings of the characters. I wish I could give more stars than 5. Thank you for writing this.
May 26, 2022
Vienna 1938, Mathias Kraemer fa parte da cinque anni del Circolo di Freud, un gruppo di scienziati, filosofi, psichiatri e scrittori fondato da Sigmund Freud, Morris Schlick e Edgar Zilsel alla fine degli anni Venti
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December 19, 2022
A compellingly evocative and powerful novel that I haven't been able to stop thinking about since I finished it. It was both heartwrenching and hopeful in equal measure and I found myself really rooting for the group of writers and their families.
There were twists i this book that I just didn't see coming and I honestly couldn't put this book down. I loved it.
There were twists i this book that I just didn't see coming and I honestly couldn't put this book down. I loved it.
January 19, 2023
What a fantastic read this was. I loved every page even though it was heartbreaking at times.
A book that delves into the plight of Jewish people during WW2 of family, friendships and heartache.
A real page turner for me.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in return for an honest review. It was an absolute pleasure.
A book that delves into the plight of Jewish people during WW2 of family, friendships and heartache.
A real page turner for me.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in return for an honest review. It was an absolute pleasure.
April 15, 2023
Although I have read numerous historical fiction novels set during WWII, this is the first I have read that tells the story of Jewish citizens who made the decision to stay in their home country, in this case, Austria, and assume false identities with the hope of escaping the notice of the Nazis. The two major characters here are two men, Matthias Kraemer and Johannes Namal, who are cousins, and both are authors of fiction books, mostly crime thrillers. As well, both are part of the circle of writers and other "thinkers" who have been meeting for some time, and on a regular basis, with Sigmund Freud. This group of men meet most often at the Cafe Mozart, where they chat and philosophize. As the Jewish community in Vienna is faced with increasing threats and restrictions, both Matthias and Johannes consider trying to escape the country. But there are circumstances that tie their hands, and both they and their families make the decision to stay and try to survive in Vienna. With minor plastic surgeries, changes in hair and eye color, and some other disguises, the changes are dramatic enough that most people do not recognize them. But there are exceptions, and the constant threat of being identified haunts all family members.
All of this sets the stage for this story, of two families and their terrors and horrors during the years leading up to WWII, until it's end in 1945. An Austrian police detective who is a member of their circle of friends strives to help in any way he can, intervening at times in ways that focus certain Nazis' attention on him as well. Most of the action takes place in Vienna, until one of the characters in this novel is sent to a concentration camp, and then part of the story unfolds there. This was one more engaging even while horrific story of the Holocaust and the horrors inflicted by the Nazis.
I was glad I had the opportunity to read this book. I owe my thanks to the Goodreads Giveaways program, the author, and publisher Mira.
All of this sets the stage for this story, of two families and their terrors and horrors during the years leading up to WWII, until it's end in 1945. An Austrian police detective who is a member of their circle of friends strives to help in any way he can, intervening at times in ways that focus certain Nazis' attention on him as well. Most of the action takes place in Vienna, until one of the characters in this novel is sent to a concentration camp, and then part of the story unfolds there. This was one more engaging even while horrific story of the Holocaust and the horrors inflicted by the Nazis.
I was glad I had the opportunity to read this book. I owe my thanks to the Goodreads Giveaways program, the author, and publisher Mira.
February 23, 2023
The Vienna Writers Circle by J.C. Maetis is set in the WWII era but has a unique focus on a group of friends, members of Freud’s Circle, meeting at the Café Mozart to discuss their writing and ideas. It’s a turbulent time full of treachery and uncertainty, and the brutality of the Nazi party is focused on finding those in Vienna, both hidden Jews and any sympathizers and as history tells, nobody is safe from the increasing anti-jewish movement taking place.
I’m a huge fan of HF but what set this story apart was the unique take it took on a group of men, all sharp intelligent men but all with something else in common, the threat that hangs over themselves and those they love. The sheer desperation and fear is felt acutely as the story moves on, it is insidious and creeping with the ramping of tension, as I can only imagine that is what it must have felt like for them as each day passed and the threat looming closer and becoming more real.
I really can’t recommend this one enough. My thanks to @HTPBooks for this gifted DRC.
I’m a huge fan of HF but what set this story apart was the unique take it took on a group of men, all sharp intelligent men but all with something else in common, the threat that hangs over themselves and those they love. The sheer desperation and fear is felt acutely as the story moves on, it is insidious and creeping with the ramping of tension, as I can only imagine that is what it must have felt like for them as each day passed and the threat looming closer and becoming more real.
I really can’t recommend this one enough. My thanks to @HTPBooks for this gifted DRC.
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