This story is based on the true story of Alma Rosé, a violinist caught up in the hell that was Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943, but still retained her humanity and fighting spirit, and in the process managed to save many lives. The story is based upon first hand testaments from the few survivors from the camps after the war, but many testified that if it wasn't for Alma they wouldn't have survived. At times the story will leave you smiling, and at others heartbroken, but it is a tale that needs telling, and needs reading, and is extremely well written. I believe that this book, more than many, gives an accurate account of life in the camps at this time.

Alma knew the war was coming, and thoughtfully took her father to England so he would be safe, but the pull of playing her violin in Europe was too strong and she went back into Europe to play jn concert halls. As far as Alma was concerned she was baptised Catholic, and had married 2 different non Jewish men, but when each saw the writing on the wall they didn't want to be married to a Jew and divorced her. In fact it was a non Jewish homosexual man who then married her to try to keep her safe, but to the Nazis she was still a Jew and she was picked up and taken to Auschwitz.

When they find out that she is a famous violinist across Europe, she is taken to the pitiful women's 'Orchestra' and made Kapo - their leader. She works with the previous Kapo to improve the orchestra beyond recognition as she realises it's the only way to keep her girls safe, and give her some power in that he'll. Indeed she manages to double the size of the orchestra and appoint other girls to do tasks to do with the orchestra, so manages to save more girls.

I believe the part that is more fictionalised is where Alma meets Miklos, a pianist and composer who was himself talented and celebrated in Europe before the war. The two fall in love over their shared love of music, and this gives Alma the strength to keep going each day.

A beautifully told story, with some difficult parts to read, but showing love can bloom in the most hideous of places, and love can sustain us and keep us going against all odds.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3630274436

5* I highly recommend this book.
A new author to me, thanks to Netgalley and bookouture for the chance to read an arc
I’ve read several other of the Auschwitz books and found them fascinating but harrowing reading.
This author has written several historical novels a lot concentrating on Auschwitz.
This book is the story of Alma Rosé. A socialite, with a privileged upbringing and a famous violinist virtuoso. She had made the journey to safety in London with her father. She chose to return to Holland as she wanted to maximise her income from performing, and she was still able to be employed. Holland fell to German occupation and she was soon rounded up and sent to Auschwitz then transferred to Birkenau.
The wretched conditions, the despair and wanton cruelty from individual SS officers for amusement make for harrowing reading.
There is also determination, courage, hope and love. Alma is described as a woman of immense strength and dignity who commanded the respect of everyone.
This book is heartbreaking, it had me in tears.
It is beautifully written and if you are fans of the other Auschwitz books you will love this.
At the end of the book the author explains which parts of the book are fact and which are fiction.

After reading the VERY high reviews for this book, I was 100% positive that I would love it. However, I did not enjoy it as much as I expected. I am in no way going to give this book a negative review due to the content and how historically accurate and painful it is to read about the subject matter. What a remarkable woman Alma Rose was. It was interesting and eye opening to hear her story. I just did not connect to the writing style. I just didn't connect to the characters like I did when I read The Nightingale or Tattooist of Auschwitz.

Heartbreaking and entrancing; breathtaking tale set durung the Holocaust. The story Alma Rose and her life in the women's prison camp. The novel appears to be well researched and is very well written. The story is immersive and engaging; an ideal read for fans of Kristin Hannah. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to review this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I loved this book! I could visualize everything so easily - Ms Midwood is so descriptive in her writing. I felt very connected to the characters of the book and I appreciated that so much of what was written was based on actual people, events, and circumstances. Highly recommend!

If I could give this book ten stars I would! It impressed me that much! I had not read any other books by this author but I note that she has written quite a few and I will definitely be looking out for them.

As I write this review, we have just passed the anniversary of Kristallnacht which was a pogrom against Jews carried out by SA paramilitary forces and civilians throughout Nazi Germany on 9–10 November 1938. I viewed posts on my facebook wall today that reminded me of this and as we are approaching Remembrance Day, I think it is fitting to remember that the war was not just about soldiers, that civilians had no choice but to be involved and that some suffered exponentially simply because of their ancestry. This book is the story of one such civilian.

Alma Rosé was a real person, a well known musician of her time and while she was not raised in the Jewish faith, her ancestry led to her imprisonment in Auschwitz and the incredible story that Ellie Midwood tells in this book.

I don’t typically start my reading at the back of an e-book but somehow this time I did. I landed at the authors note and at the historical note section. Some people will have heard of Alma before if they viewed to movie “Playing For Time”, or read the book of the same name by Fania Fenelon. Apparently, it did not give an accurate depiction of Alma’s character, and on the movie’s release survivors of Auschwitz spoke up on Alma’s behalf. This inspired the author to tell a fictionalized version of Alma’s time in Auschwitz. Although some of the premises show creative license, the author used multiple resources to give as much accuracy as possible to the tale. We read of Dr. Mengele and other infamous names from the past. As I was reading I at times felt as if I was right there experiencing the horror along with Alma. Her descriptions brought the scenes to life. Although it was extremely well-written, I felt I had to spread my reading out and read something lighter as my bedtime reading in order not to dwell on it when I should be sleeping.

Because of her skill with a violin, Alma was placed in charge of the Women’s Orchestra at Auschwitz. Initially she had no inclination to take the job preferring not to play for the Nazi’s, but she eventually realized that if she took the job on she could potentially save multiple lives and this is indeed what happened. Her willingness to stand up against the evil around her and speak out for others caused even the Nazi’s to develop respect for her.

I was sorry when the book finally ended. Alma’s life story is one that will remain with me for a very long time. It is well worth reading.

Many thanks to #NetGalley , #Bookouture and #EllieMidwood for allowing me to read an advance reader copy. This review contains my honest opinions.

The Violinist of Auschwitz is based on the true story of Alma Rose- one of histories most inspiring and courageous heroines. Before being sent to Auschwitz, Alma was an esteemed violinist who’s performances left her audiences spellbound. But when the Nazis descent on Europe, none of that can save her… The head of the women’s camp eventually appoints Alma as the conductor of the orchestra. At first, Alma refuses to work for the Nazis, but she eventually realizes she can provide starving girls with extra rations and save many from death.

Y’all- this book was beautiful! Every book about the Holocaust is heartbreaking and heavy, but The Violinist of Auschwitz captures Alma’s dedication, determination and bravery. She was truly such an inspiration.

I enjoyed reading this book. The writing was fabulous, the story moved steadily, and I was interested in knowing what happened next. It was obvious that the author did a fantastic job researching this story and life at Auschwitz.

Read this one if you enjoyed The Nightingale or the Tattooist of Auschwitz.

Five amazing stars!

Thank you NetGalley, Ellie Midwood, and Bookouture for an ARC in return for my review.

#TheViolinistofAuschwitz #NetGalley

The Violinist of Auschwitz follows the path of Alma Rose and her life experiences during her time spent in Auschwitz. This book was well written and very easy to follow along. You are introduced to many characters and even home well known historical characters. You might even change your mind about some of these... if just a little. I am often times in awe of how lucky (I know that isnt the right word) some of the prisoners were during this time. Yes, absolutely horrific times, but these ladies in the book had some different experiences than others at the time had. You will fall in love with Alma, and will even have a little cry throughout the book. Well written, and was a new twist on other books that I have read in this genre.

Reading about WWII is always difficult. Especially when the story is based on a real person and you know exactly how it’s going to end.
But, this was a very interesting read. It was clearly researched and a lot of thought went into the writing.
I think it would have been cool to have had this novel written in first person. To really be in Alma’s head instead of on the outside looking in.
I think if you enjoy reading about WWII, this would be a novel novel to add to your repertoire.
Brought moments of resilience to a time where very little peace was to be found.

*special thanks to NetGalley for the ARC to review!

Wow! What a read! This is based on the true story of Alma Rose, a violin virtuoso of the Vienna Orchestra who is sent to Auschwitz. Alma manages to convince her camp leader and SS officers to organize an orchestra inside the camp.to entertain the SS officers and fellow prisoners. Not only does she accomplish this task, but manages to save other musicians from the gas chambers by recruiting them to her orchestra, and get extra food rations and medical supplies to the sick while showing such strength amongst such sorrow. This book was so well written, intelligent and engaging. You root for these people and care about them. A very heavy hearted tragic read but so good.

This was such a sad book to read but brilliantly written, l knew a little bit about the violinist and what happened to her . I am still amazed by what happened in the war at Auschwitz and other camps. I do recommend that you read this book as it is heartbreaking but so interesting.

Thanks so much to Bookouture for the ARC of The Violinist of Auschwitz by Ellie Midwood!

I was specifically thrilled to read this book because it fits right into my journey as The Bookish Vegan.

The Violinist of Auschwitz is the story of real life heroine Alma Rose, a famous Viennese violinist who's career is complete halted by the occupation of the Nazis. After being sent to Auschwitz, her name and talent are recognized by both prisoners and guards, and she keeps herself and 40 others alive by conducting an orchestra within the camp. It is based on a true story.

As a Jewish person, I am always drawn to Jewish stories, and have read quite a lot about the Holocaust.. I also grew up in a predominantly Jewish community, so I am well versed in Jewish history. I definitely come into all Holocaust stories with a specific perspective and was interested to see what made this book stand out. I found The Violinist of Auschwitz to be a very informative read, especially for those who might not know so much about the atrocities of the Holocaust. Alma Rose's story is a lesser known one, and I think it is fabulous that Midwood brought light to her story. In the Author's Note, she shares that Alma's story has been convoluted in the past. I'm glad this book can do her justice.

What's important to note is that Alma was a Jewish woman who fought for power. in the camp. She stood up to SS officers and even Dr. Josef Mengele, one of the most notorious villains known to man. This is astounding and I loved Midwood's emphasis on her strength. It's valuable for readers to know that amidst this horrific event in history, there were an abundance of fighters and heroes. Alma saved many lives because of her humility and compassion. She was unafraid to challenge others; a good message for us all in these tumultuous times.

If you are looking to learn more about the Holocaust, I recommend this book. It will give you insight into a different kind of story through enticing and honest fiction.

The Violinist of Auschwitz by Ellie Midwood
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Historical Fiction | Literary Fiction
Release Date: November 18, 2020

The Violinist of Auschwitz is a powerful story by Ellie Midwood and is based on a true story.

I typically do not read this genre because I prefer lighter books, but I was drawn to this story. It is emotional and heartbreaking and will stay with me for a long time.

This was beautifully written and grips you to the core. Incredible!


I'm so grateful to Ellie Midwood, Bookouture, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.

“Based on the unforgettable true story of Alma Rosé, The Violinist of Auschwitz brings to life one of history’s most fearless, inspiring and courageous heroines. Her bravery saved countless lives, bringing hope to those who had forgotten its meaning.”
I loved this book so much. I thought the story was both beautiful and heartbreaking simultaneously. The author wrote about this tragic time in history and the lives that were taken with dignity and grace. She left me wanting to know more about the characters and their lives before and after the war. I would definitely recommend this book to those who are interested in WWII and tales of that time period. I found a lot of similarities between this book and “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” which I also really enjoyed. It did take me a little while to get into the story, but once I did I was hooked.
Overall, I gave this book 4.5 stars.
TW for death, assault and violence.

So I've been reading The Violinist of Auschwitz and it's a beautiful read, based on a true story of Jewish Violinist Alma Rose, but it is incredibly heavy...

At some point I'd love to read the whole book, its beautifully written and a story that needed to be told, but with everything going on right now I need to put it down and enjoy some lighter reads.

With that said for those interested in reading it... I want to say from what I've read of it... wow. A poignant novel, leaving your gut wrenched for what the prisoners of Auschwitz went through and the devestation of the war.

This book was terrible sad just like I expected it to be. Part of what made it so was that this is based on a true story and our main character was a real woman who actually went through those terrible things. This story is all about a famous violinist named Alma Rose. She was sentenced to Auschwitz when Germany began its attacks however this story is all about how she played her instrument in the face of pure evil and was able to save herself
and many other from the burning fires that awaited them. While I have read a lot about WWII I have never heard about Alma Rose so this book was very compelling. It told me a lot of things that I never knew happened and let me broaden my knowledge on this terrible event that happened in the world. I loved how this book shows Alma's bravery and strength both which were hard to come by I'm sure in her situation. This was a terribly sad read however it showed lots of courage and showed that even at its darkest there is still light in the world if you choose to look for it. I'm very glad that I got the chance to read this book.

I have read some really great books based at Auschwitz and have an interest in the Holocaust. I have to say this is one of the best books I've read in this subject matter.

Alma, the main protagonist, comes across as a warm and friendly person. She coped amazingly during such an awful period of our history, helping others to survive in the process.

The author has written a great story, merging both fact and fiction. The characters were really brought to life; not just Alma but also Dr Death himself, Dr Josef Mengele.

A must read book I couldn't put down.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher Bookouture for allowing me to read and review this book.

Remember her name. Remember her story. Alma Rosé.

This book is breathtakingly inspiring. I went into it thinking I knew what to expect, and I had no clue what this book was going to deliver. Add it to your list NOW!

What a journey I went on reading the story of Alma.
Alma was a brave, courageous woman that fought for the better and saw only the positive things people could contribute. She was a strong person whose eventual lack of want took her to her to death.
Amazing book that I thoroughly recommend to anyone who likes reading the insights into WW2. The sheer horrific ness that went with Aushwitz is both horrific and eye opening in the same.
An emotional read that will stay within my heart fit many years.
Praise to the author for their ability to create such a fine read

For all eternity, no matter how short it will be.
For all eternity, and long after that, too.

The Violinist of Auschwitz is based on true events. It is a very emotionally charged historical WWII story. A beautiful, poignant, touching and heart-rending story I recommend you read.
Alma Rose was a famous violinist in the Vienna Orchestra in Austria but because she was a Jew, is sent to Auschwitz. This story follows Alma as she adapts to survive against the insurmountable odds against her.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Ellie Midwood, for this opportunity to read the arc of The Violinist of Auschwitz. All opinions expressed are my own.