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Becoming Sarah
The story follows Sarah, a girl born in Auschwitz, who grows up amid the ruins of war and memory. From her survival as a baby in impossible conditions to her complicated relationships with families, lovers, and the ghosts of her past, the novel stretches across decades. It is a portrait of a life shaped by trauma yet driven by the relentless pull of love, survival, and identity. The book traces how one woman carries both the horror and the humor of her history, and how those who come after her must reckon with what remains.
Reading this book was not easy, and I don’t think it was meant to be. The writing felt raw and startlingly alive. Sometimes the prose slowed me down with its density, but I kept going because every page had something sharp and true. I loved how the author wasn’t afraid to mix beauty with ugliness. She gave me moments of dark humor right after scenes that tore at me. The characters were flawed, sometimes unlikeable, yet unforgettable. Sarah, especially, lingered in my head long after I closed the book.
There were also times I felt overwhelmed. The shifts between past and present, memory and dream, tested me as a reader. But maybe that was the point. Trauma doesn’t follow neat lines. The way Botnick wrote mirrored the chaos of living with scars you can’t see. And when I let myself stop fighting the structure, I found myself swept into it. I laughed in places I didn’t expect, and I cried in places I thought I wouldn’t.
I came away from Becoming Sarah feeling both heavy and strangely hopeful. This isn’t a typical Holocaust novel. It’s about the long aftershocks, the way history worms its way into kitchens, bedrooms, and even jokes. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to feel a story as much as read it, especially those who care about how the past seeps into family, motherhood, and love.
Pages: 347 | ASIN : B0DVCX64WV
Connections Make the World Go Round
Before We Arrived follows three people, each marked by loss, resilience, and quiet strength, who seek refuge at a goat sanctuary; they find not only healing but also a found family. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
First I’d like to thank Literary Titan for the interview. I absolutely loved writing this novel and am thrilled it’s resonating with people on a deep level.
The idea for the rescue sanctuary came easily. I adore animals and the notion that they have the power to aid in the healing process for humans. ‘Herd’ species—goats, donkeys, horses, and alpacas—were chosen because they need each other as well as their human caretakers. It was also a way to inject a bit of fun into the mix with their shenanigans. I was keen to have the work volunteers live on-site, enjoying shared meals and private sleeping spaces. I’ve had personal experience with various forms of communal living and it made sense to incorporate that. I wanted King Solomon Sanctuary to serve as an interactive setting that chunks of the story arcs could pivot around. The workers have the option to come and go as they please during off-hours but most choose to stay in close proximity to one another and the animals—it’s their own special tight-knit community of second chances.
Henry, Rivka, and Jayce all come to the sanctuary for different reasons, holding onto trauma that has kept them closed off until now. What was the inspiration for the relationship that develops between the characters?
Connections make the world go round. In Before We Arrived we witness the interactions within each of the biological families, as well as between the narrators and secondary characters as new friendships are forged and old ties change shape. All three families have struggled through adversity, and we learn the details of their backstories as the chapters progress. The world can be harsh and cold, relationships complicated and messy. What are the multitude of elements that guide our path and our decisions? Can we build a meaningful life after experiencing tragedy? How do we best care for ourselves and each other? These are the kinds of questions that motivate me to create stories.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I’ll preface this answer by noting that I did not set out to write a book specifically about grief and resilience; that just happened organically as the outcome of each character’s story and their relationships with one another.
The novel explores questions about race/culture/identity, the short and long-term effects of personal and generational trauma, family dynamics, and issues around marginalization. I’ve also had a perennial fascination with ancestral memories, so that was layered in, along with the underlying truths about the universality of suffering and the value of connection and empathy. Naturally some of these themes overlap.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Before We Arrived was recently released and I’m not quite ready to think about beginning a new project. Writing does energize me so another novel is within the realm of possibilities.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
In the summer of 2005, three dissimilar people—Henry, a grieving Black landscaper; Rivka, a restless Jewish social worker; and Jayce, a guarded Indigenous archaeologist—find their lives colliding in quiet, powerful ways.
From New England to Vietnam, this lyrical novel traces their search for peace, meaning, and joy amid the rubble of personal and ancestral trauma. Lush, moving, and deeply human, Before We Arrived is a celebration of resilience, found family, and love in its many forms.
Before We Arrived is a soulful, literary journey through grief, healing, and unexpected connections. Fans of James McBride and Lily King will feel right at home.
Before We Arrived
Jodie Pine’s Before We Arrived spins a beautiful tapestry of interconnected lives across time, grief, and healing. Told through alternating chapters set between 1975 and 2005, the story traces three families—each marked by loss, resilience, and quiet strength—as they find each other through fate and a shared sanctuary. A former archaeologist, a social worker, and a man recovering from injury and trauma become unlikely kin under the roof of a goat sanctuary, of all places. But it’s more than goats. It’s about second chances, and third. It’s about holding sorrow in one hand and still reaching out with the other.
As a widow, I didn’t expect this book to hit me like it did. From the very first chapter with Henry and his mangled hand, I felt my heart slide into that familiar hollow space. The line—“trying so hard to keep things light”—caught in my throat. That’s exactly what it’s like when you’re walking around with your grief zipped up under your coat. Henry’s story reminded me how healing doesn’t look like a movie montage. It’s awkward, reluctant, even a little muddy. His growth is slow but steady, like learning how to breathe again after forgetting for a while.
Then there’s Rivka. Oh, Rivka. I adored her. The way she stepped into Nina King’s quiet, grief-soaked apartment, dripping wet and uninvited, but still offering help with a kind firmness—it was deeply moving. Her voice felt familiar to me, like someone I would’ve met. Her compassion for baby David, and her refusal to flinch in the face of Nina’s silence or mistrust, showed the kind of stubborn kindness I’ve come to cherish in my own life. The moment when Nina finally lets her hold the baby? That nearly did me in.
Jayce’s chapters, especially the funeral scene and the pact he makes with his mother, stirred something in me. We can’t disappear with our dead. I loved how his archaeology background tied into the theme of digging—literally and emotionally—for what’s been buried. His arc wasn’t flashy, but it was profound. Quiet endurance. I know it well.
What Jodie Pine does so beautifully is show how people can be shattered and still be whole. There are no villains here, just folks doing their best with their pain. The prose is warm and alive, sometimes messy, just like real conversation. I chuckled more than once—especially during Henry’s first day with the goats—and found unexpected joy in the ordinary moments: Rivka eating Fig Newtons at her desk, David fixing a bike, a fox sculpture on a table. These small details made the world feel lived-in, like someone left the light on for you.
This book is for anyone who’s ever been broken open and needed help stitching themselves back together. It’s for people who are lonely but not hopeless. For readers who don’t mind stories that move like real life—with detours, overlaps, long silences, and sudden beauty.
Pages: 395 | ASIN : B0FG3L2V5Q
An Act of Goodness
Until The Stars Align is the story of three young Jewish girls, their daring escape from the horrors of Nazi Germany, and their lives with foster families in England. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had been aware of the Kindertransport for years. I’ve always thought it was phenomenal that the British rescued 10,000 mostly Jewish children and started the program right after Kristallnacht, realizing what was coming. They let these kids into their country to live there safely, with foster families, away from the impending war. It knocks my socks off every time I think about it. What an act of goodness! Bravo, Britain!
So I came up with the idea of writing about a family impacted by the parents’ decision to send three children, cousins, to safety in England. Once there, the three are split up, and sent to live with different foster families, but they stay in touch and begin to adjust to their new lives. I also wanted to show what the biological parents were going through in Germany as they tried to arrange to emigrate. From all accounts, getting out of the Third Reich before the war started wasn’t easy.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
I did quite a bit of research for it, as you can imagine! I’ve always been fascinated by the time period, so over the years I’d already read a massive amount of books about it, just out of curiosity. For this story, I read, and in one case re-read, true accounts of children who had been on the Kindertransport. I also consistently fact-checked every little detail that I could get my hands on regarding the time period in both England and Germany. I found out what train stations the transports left from, where they ultimately arrived, the way the children also had to ride ferry boats from Holland to England, how long the ferry took to get there in 1939 – everything like that. I also researched as many details as I could uncover about London during the Blitz, such as what it was like to take shelter from the bombs in the underground stations, how accidents increased during the blackout, or that sandbags lined a lot of the streets. I even found a website listing exactly when and where every bomb attack fell on London and referred to that before writing the part of the story where one of the foster families gets bombed out. I wanted to make this book as accurate a historical novel as possible.
But keep in mind, I’ve adored doing research since all the way back when I was a grammar school girl. For me, it becomes like a treasure hunt of sorts, looking for those elusive bits of information, and then, voila, finding them!
What were some challenges you felt were important to defining your characters in this story?
I created a whole lot of characters for this book in order to show as many different sides of their various experiences as possible.
The three girls have suffered discrimination in Berlin and it’s taken a toll on them, suddenly they’re being sent away from there, but to live with whole new families. It starts off from there, and there’s also the situations happening with the parents left behind in Berlin, the kind foster parents, the English homefront, the Battle of Britain, and more. Above and beyond all else, there’s no mail service between England and Germany once the two countries go to war with one another, so the big pervasive question for these three resettled children in England is what’s going on with their relatives back home?
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’ve worked on a cozy mystery that will be available soon. It’s called There’s No Cure for Impossible. How’s that for a title? It’s about a young gal who learns the toxic friend she wrote off just kidnapped a baby. It was another fun one to write!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Blog | YouTube | Amazon
It’s June 1939. Three young Jewish girls, Rosi, her sister Anni, and their cousin Emilie, wait to board the Kindertransport train that will take them away from Nazi Germany, and a life of discrimination, to kind foster families in England. The parents hate to let them go, but realize it’s for their own good, and that it may just be their only chance of survival. When guarded Rosi arrives in London, she’s placed in the East End with a welcoming family of “Pearlies,” and begins to blossom into the happy young girl she was originally born to be, before the Nazis disrupted her world. Anni goes to live with upper-crust foster parents and their shy daughter, and Emilie with a newsagent and his wife. They like their new country and adore their “new parents,” but what has happened back home in Berlin to their “old” parents? By 1945, when there are still no answers, Rosi is determined to find out. Will the stars align to bring about a reunion or is it already too late?
Past Imperfect
Past Imperfect by Joshua Cohen offers a compelling foray into the world of historical thrillers, immersing readers in a narrative rich with suspense and detail. The story follows Private Investigator Benjamin Gold in the post-World War II era of 1957 Cleveland. Hired by his synagogue’s Rabbi and childhood friend, Gold embarks on a secretive investigation of Mendel Khan, a respected real estate tycoon and Temple’s Board of Trustees member. Khan is suspected of being Yitzhak Fried, a Nazi collaborator accused of wartime atrocities.
As Gold delves into Khan’s history, the narrative reveals a complex character who, while possibly not a Nazi collaborator, harbors a less-than-immaculate past. The story poses critical questions: What secrets is Khan hiding, and how far will he go to keep them buried? Can Gold survive long enough to unveil the truth? Cohen’s narrative deftly captures the atmosphere of the 1950s, with the shadow of the Holocaust adding a poignant undercurrent to the tale. The book is a masterclass in building suspense, weaving a narrative that is both action-packed and rife with unexpected developments. The tension escalates as Gold, a tenacious and fearless protagonist, confronts Khan, a character who combines intimidation and shrewd defense in his battle to safeguard his secrets.
Past Imperfect is a blend of historical context, complex characters, and a well-crafted plot, making it an engaging read for crime and mystery fiction enthusiasts. Joshua Cohen skillfully balances humor and gravity, crafting a story that resonates long after turning the final page.
Page: 298 | ASIN : B0BYH9YHJH
Babylon Laid Waste-A Journey in the Twilight of the Idols
Babylon Laid Waste: A Journey in the Twilight of the Idols, authored by Brigitte Goldstein, masterfully delves into the harrowing saga of a young Jewish woman’s audacious endeavor to locate her long-lost grandmother in the ruins of post-war Berlin.
Set against the backdrop of a world in the throes of convalescence following the devastation of World War II, the narrative unravels in the year 1946. Our protagonist, Artemisia Safran, hailing from New York, receives an unexpected missive hinting at the possible survival of her grandmother, previously assumed deceased. This news prompts Artemisia to defy familial objections and embark on a perilous journey through the scarred streets of Germany. The desperate urgency of her mission forces her to weave a web of deceptions, but her inexperience may inadvertently obscure the real perils lurking along her path. A quagmire of danger engulfs her, and she’s falsely branded as a Nazi, cornered with seemingly no escape. However, salvation emerges in the enigmatic form of Franz Kafka from Prague, who, acknowledging her undeserved plight, meticulously crafts an escape strategy. This unlikely alliance ignites sparks of romance, complicating Artemisia’s original mission, weaving a tangled tapestry of politics, survival, and blossoming love.
Goldstein’s narration is fantastic. She meticulously structures each chapter and segment of the novel to effectively guide the reader through the labyrinth of poignant events that marked the War. The authenticity and precision of the recounted horror scenes invite readers on a journey of recovery and reconciliation, fostering connections and facilitating healing.
The novel’s intricate structure, engrossing plot, and enlightening insights encapsulate the harrowing uncertainties and fears of the era. The diverse perspectives offered through an array of well-developed characters craft a provocative milieu, compelling readers to reflect on historical events and vicariously experience the trials of those who bore witness to some of mankind’s darkest hours.
Babylon Laid Waste: A Journey in the Twilight of the Idols stands as a riveting historical novel imbued with unexpected plot twists and resolute characters that enrich the reader’s engagement. This highly recommended literary piece succinctly encapsulates significant moments of Jewish history with a deep reverence for past events and a tribute to the countless lives tragically extinguished during this catastrophic epoch.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B07VV6F4KW
Finding Home
Finding Home (Hungary, 1945) by Dean Cycon is a poignant tale about a group of Holocaust survivors returning to their hometown of Laszlo, Hungary. The narrative follows the traumatized group as they struggle to reintegrate into society, with a particular focus on young pianist Eva. Battling with her trauma and memories, Eva endeavors to reclaim her former life before the Nazi occupation. However, many of their homes have been sold or repurposed, creating further hurdles in their attempts to rebuild their lives. Despite these challenges, Eva perseveres, working hard to return to her passion for music and auditioning for the academy she has always dreamed of.
This gripping novel is highly recommended for those who appreciate impactful historical fiction. It is a well-crafted story that is deeply rooted in historical facts, with Eva’s flashbacks and memories drawn from the experiences of actual Holocaust survivors. Each character has their own backstory and challenges, making the emotional impact of the narrative even more profound. The reader is swept up in their journey, feeling immense sympathy for their struggles.
The writing style is commendable, with well-constructed sentences that read smoothly and effortlessly. The third-person narrative is skillfully executed, making for a seamless reading experience. Regarding the struggle that the characters felt returning home, readers can feel the devastation at finding everything they remembered taken from them yet again. The townspeople’s lack of welcome for the returning survivors casts a dark shadow over surviving the Holocaust. Still, their determination to not give up and reclaim parts of their life is felt throughout the pages of this exceptional novel.
In summary, Finding Home (Hungary, 1945) by Dean Cycon is a beautifully written and engaging historical fiction novel that powerfully depicts the struggles of Holocaust survivors returning home. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking an immersive and moving reading experience.
Pages: 416 | ASIN : B0BZG13L22
To See God
In To See God, Bruce J. Berger enlightens the reader on the journey of spirituality, understanding God, and following religion. The author uses tales that believers can relate to sharing the message of a loving God, living righteously, and following the same steps as Christ did when he was on earth.
The tales in the book, the characters that the author uses as a reference, and the lessons at the end of every discussion are some of the notable elements in this book. Bruce J. Berger writes in an easy to comprehend manner. Reading this book gives one a sense of belonging. As a reader, you feel good about being a child of God and even feel better knowing that higher powers are looking over you.
The author tells the story of Jewish siblings and family who, despite being disconnected by distance, time, and religious beliefs, have a way of bonding at some point. The story reads like a surreal novel, with mystery and complex elements. The mixed mystery and suspense in the pages make for an exciting read. Bruce J. Berger’s manner of combining the different storylines into a larger overall plot was expertly done.
In the main story, a lady by the name of Theodora gets a vision that her grand-nephew, who is in the United States of America, is likely the second coming of Jesus. Now, Theodora is a staunch Greek Orthodox nun who has gone through interesting experiences herself. However, one of the most notable moments in her life was when she was saved from the holocaust by the Virgin Mary. Theodora is in a country miles away from her grand-nephew, and following her journey was enchanting.
Bruce J. Berger writes to help readers build their faith. Amazingly, such a sacred and educational book was written not just for believers but also for readers that are questioning their spirituality. The author has a talent for conveying love, sanctity, and religion. As a reader, you are able to engage with the author through his words.
I like that as you read the book, you are able to ask multiple theological questions and get answers from the book. This is a thought-provoking book that will leave readers reflecting on family, and religious paths, balancing life’s experiences, dealing with personal challenges, and learning about God and spiritual life. To See God is a captivating addition to the Forgiveness and Faith Novel series.
Pages: 302 | ASIN : B0BNVQ7XQW
LITERARY TITAN 