4.25 Stars

The Sunflower House packs an emotional punch. A tale of intrigue and romance provide the foundation of exploring Nazi Germany's government sponsored and sanctioned homes of the Lebensborn Program. The program's goals were to create a superior (read that white) nation of future Nazis and Hitler idolaters.

What made this tale a bit unusual for the World War II Historical Fiction genre was the involvement of a Mischling and a Nazi Officer. It begs the question: can the reader be swayed or empathetic toward a main character that is profoundly a Nazi? No spoilers here.

Told in a then and now format. A woman in her 60's finds a box marked by a swastika buried among her elderly mother's things. A pandora's box, if you will. Chapter by chapter the story of Allina and Karl is unspooled by Allina to her daughter revealing the traumas both personal and witnessed decades early.

As a debut novel, I am impressed on how the author was able to create characters that I could both love and despise. Though I feel there were a couple of time jumps, the Sunflower House will certainly satisfy those that love Historical Fiction and perhaps add to the knowledge that we readers often learn through such a book.

Thank you to St. Martins Press and Netgalley for an early electronic copy. All opinions are my own.

Allina was living a very happy and content life, until the night she loses everyone she cares about, and it taken by a German officer. after being brutally beaten, she is taken to Hochland Home. A home for “pure” woman to give birth to and then adopt out the next generation of the German race. What they don’t know is that Allina’s mom was Jewish. When she sees what happens to the “imperfect” children, Allina knows she needs to do something. Between helping others, and trying to protect herself, Allina is running herself into the ground. When she finds an unexpected partner in crime, the two do everything they can to fight Hitlers plans.


PHEW PHEW PHEW. This is NOT an easy read friends. Honestly, I kind of feeling like right now I can’t read cute happy stuff. It just isn’t doing it for me. Maybe my head is just not in a happy go lucky place so I can’t appreciate it? I’m not sure, but it takes me over a week to read a rom com, but a thriller or historical fiction? I speed through. Anyway, this book was absolutely fantastic, but horrifically hard to swallow at the same time. Reading about the baby rooms that Allina was working in just made me sick to my stomach. I don’t want to spoil anything but I just loved some of the characters, even though it was hard to justify the things they were doing in order to be able to help the Jewish population. This one will leave you debating whether what these characters did was “right,” or enough, and would be a great book club pick. I think it would lead to some really fascinating conversations. Something that really stood out to me while reading this book, was how quickly and easily people fell under Hitler’s spell, and started doing his bidding. It was impossible to read without comparing to a certain person running for president right now, and how easily we could fall under a similar leadership. So if I haven’t said it enough recently….VOTE!

Thank you to @stmartinspress for my gifted copy of this book!

“Secrets can’t exist in the light of truth, and while the truth can be painful to hear, its lasting gift is peace. I know this is true, because my mother taught it to me.”

The Sunflower House by Adrianna Allegri is the horrific story of the Lebensborn Project started by SS officer Himmler during World War II. Allegri gathered information over a 20 year period creating a masterpiece of a story that teaches people about the true monsters Hitler and his officers were.

The story takes place at Hochland House, the first home built in 1936, where hand selected women came to create as many perfect Arian children as they could so that the children could be adopted by German couples who could not have children of their own. This was a way to expand the German population and increase the “perfect” race. This did happen. But…… what happened to the children that were not born perfect and could not be adopted? How did the women survive having their children taken away?
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Katrina comes to take care of her sick mother, Allina, in 2006 and stumbles across a box with a swastika on it. She is scared, but determined to find out what it all means. Secrets of who her father was has kept Kristina and her mother apart for years. Is she ready to hear the story that was keep secret for over 70 years. Will the story of her mother’s life be the truth that brings them back together or will the truth continue to keep them apart?

This is an unputdownable read and an important one. As like what is happening in our world right now must never be forgotten, so must the atrocities that occurred during Hitler’s reign never be forgotten. The way to never forget is to keep writing about the time period so that we can get the stories in as many hands as possible. Thank you Adrianna Allegri for helping the world to never forget.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is an excellent story that must be read. It will be out November 12, 2024.

Language: PG13+ (18+ swears, 1+ "f"); Mature Content: R; Violence: PG13+
While I generally find WWII historical fiction books fascinating, this one hit my heart with too much pain. The descriptions of rape are not crass but are detailed enough to be uncomfortable, and I don't want to keep reading about these atrocities.
The mature content rating is for mentions of alcohol, kissing, groping, nudity, and rape. The violence rating is for corpses, assault, gun use, and murder.

The Sunflower House is the story about Lebensborn program. I knew nothing about this prior to reading about it. To say that I'm shocked and horrified is understatement. Wondering how such evil could exist is beyond me. I've taken this story into my heart and mind as a reminder of what could happen again in the future. The story resonates with on a personal level as a mother. I highly recommend this book.

I had no idea about the Lebensborn Program and the Lebensborn Houses and this program during the war. I learned so much through the eyes of Allina, Karl and the rest of the characters. The story of Allina and Karl and their determination to protect as many children as possible was incredible. They took extreme risks in the face of danger. I did not want to stop reading. I look forward to the next books this debut author writes.

A read that brings to light some of the atrocities that happened during the reign of terror of WWII.
This is a fictional read, based on truth, and the author brings this story alive, she gives us main characters that are fictional, but based on Lebensborn Program, a real program that was in place to make a strong Aryan race of people. The author brings to light the horrible, sterile conditions these poor babies lived in, and what happens to those that don't make the cut.
I really loved the way this story begins, and then how it is told, what a great opening to share this horrible time in the world's history.
The author also give us some great notes at the end of this book, and such insight into the horrible happenings that were occurring!
A story that would make a great movie, and should be a mandatory read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher St. Martin's Press, and was not required to give a positive review.

Sometimes, one unforgettable story, like The Sunflower House, comes along and touches me deeply with its resilient characters, formidable plot, and extremely beautiful and heartbreaking love story.

Allina is a strong and spirited young woman in a time when personal convictions can get you killed. I can’t imagine the terror and loneliness she experienced while trying to keep a dangerous secret and survive during the war. Her love of the children at Hochland Home gives her purpose as she tries to save as many as she can from the atrocities being inflicted on innocent people.

Allina is understandably reticent of everyone around her, and when the kind and thoughtful SS officer, Karl, takes an interest in her, she is extremely wary. Karl has his own deadly secret and elicits Allina’s help for his cause. Their love story is beautiful, but their partnership is rife with risks and difficult choices that ripped my heart out. Historical fiction/romance during WWII is challenging to balance between good and evil, and Karl’s character is so complex and tragic as he fights for his country in his own way but loses his soul in the process. The way he protects Allina and his daughter, Katrine, is extraordinary.

Ms. Allegri does an excellent job explaining the Lebensborn Program, which was a genuine state-run baby factory established by the Nazis to perpetuate the Aryan race. It has been recorded that German women volunteered as part of the war effort, but it’s likely, as in Allina’s case, that not all women were given a choice. The two timelines with Allina’s grown daughter and Allina’s journey as a young girl are skillfully woven together as mother and child come together over tragedy.

I could not put this book down. This exceptional story has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind, earning its rightful place among my favorite reads of the year.

Thank you to Ms. Allegri for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

Absolutely couldn't put this book down. It was so emotional and heartbreaking to read this story but the author wrote it beautifully. Thank you very much for allowing me to read this and leave my opinion. Thank you to the author and the publisher for this book .

5 bright stars! Wow. This book is why I love historical fiction. It was an amazing story and I learned about events in history I was unfamiliar with. Be sure to read the authors note at the end of the book

The story follows Allina and begins when her small village is raided by German soldiers looking for traitors. One soldier seems her special and “saves” her. He brings her to Hochland home. Hochland home is part of the Lebensborn program - Heinrich Himmler’s ruthless program that consisted of women who were “working” to further the Aryan race by providing children. Allina is tasked with working in a nursery at the home. Eventually she falls under the protection of Karl, a high-ranking SS officer. Together they forge ahead sharing family secrets, love and determination. Highly recommend.

For the first half of this book I was fully invested in and very much enjoying the story. The writing was immersive, the story heartbreaking, and being brought along with Allina to Hochland Home was interesting (in a horrifying and sad sort of way). But once I got to the halfway point the story shifted to be focused more on the romance, and I got bored. The writing didn’t feel as immersive at that point, and I just didn’t enjoy it as much.

Also, the book is basically a mother telling her daughter the story. So it felt like a very odd choice to include some slightly descriptive open door scenes. And they didn’t fit the tone of the book either, so it just felt weird. And at one point we are told about things that the main character couldn’t possibly know, so that’s didn’t fit the narrative either. Not a huge problem, but it kind of bugged me.

Anyways, my slight issues with the book are not likely to bother most people. I think this one is going to be very popular. And I did like the book and thought it was well written. So definitely give it a shot if you’re a fan of historical fiction!

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for the digital ARC of this book.

Through this novel, I was fascinated (and sickened) to learn of Germany’s Lebensborn houses during WWII, houses established as “baby farms” for the purpose of increasing and multiplying the Aryan race — something that Hitler fervently desired. I applaud the author in being able to tell this atrocious story through characters who were deeply concerned with protecting the child victims of Hitler’s maniacal tendencies and who exhibited love, compassion, and sacrifice — and who were some of the finest people that the human race had to offer. All in all, this was an enlightening and uplifting read, mainly because of Allina and Karl, the main characters.

Let me first say that this is a book that will stay with you for some time. This debut author knew how to bring her characters to life, and the story was original. I couldn’t put it down.

There are duel timelines, but not to the point of distracting from the main story. When Katrine discovers a hidden box in her elderly mother’s closet, she needs answers. Why? They are living in the USA. The box has a swastika on the lid.

Her 86-year-old mother, who was resting after falling off the step stool in her closet has no excuses. Time is getting short and she has a story that her daughter needs to hear.

Since I’m not a fan of reading a synopsis, they have a way of sharing too much, I’m just going to say that this story will keep the pages turning. This unique story was woven around history that was new to me. However, I never felt like the story was secondary to the history. Allegri let the characters do the telling and the history fell into place.

Allina, the 86-year-old lady relating this story to her daughter will quickly win you over. She is frail at the appropriate times yet has plenty of spunk. And the characters that surround her are a mix that feels believable. I could feel their emotions pounding in my chest: their dilemmas and choices. 

It would make a wonderful movie since it covers people and circumstances that are so touching.

My Concern

While we all know this part of history was horrendous, the author has injected a good side of humanity. I had no concerns.

Final Thoughts

I recently discovered how much I like historical fiction. But . . . the last few books have fallen short and I’ve started to pass on the genre. However, I liked the title and cover of The Sunflower House by Adriana Allegri, so I thought I give the genre one more try.

It provided the boost that I needed. Bravo to a new author who I will certainly be watching. And while I try not to push a book to the point it can’t meet expectations, don’t overlook this gem.

My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martins Publishing for a digital copy.

I have been left speechless. I am so impressed with the author. I can't believe this is her first book. Fingers crossed that she will be writing more Historical Fiction stories.

The author takes the reader to a time some would rather forget through the eyes and heart of Allina. She lives in a small village with her aunt and uncle, not knowing much about her parents. She is struggling with the increased Nazi attitude even in her small village. She struggles to keep quiet.

When the most horrible of horrible things occurs, Allina is left the only known survivor. Everyone in her village was under suspicion of treason after the SS officer learns the leader died recently. When she is discovered alive; she is allowed to live but at what cost.

Allina brought to a Lebensborn Home. Grab those tissues if you haven't already. I know I needed them. The details on the conditions, the children, the policies, the baby making machines to crest more perfect Aryans. I totally get Allina's struggles.

When she finds her purpose the danger becomes real. The story is overflowing with drama and suspense. I can't thank the author enough to allow Allina a little happiness. Her bravery jumps off the pages. Her sacrifice will remain with me for a long time.

Thank you NetGalley as well as the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and give an honest review of this book.

Prior to reading this book, I had never heard of the Lebensborn Homes where children were born with the intent of increasing the population of aryan children for the Third Reich. Himmler’s involvement gave it the sinisterness related to experimentation and eugenics going on in Germany before and during World War 2.

This is a love story, and one of survival. It demonstrates that even in vile and evil times, goodness can survive.

There is a frightening element to this story as one reads about Hitler’s Germany. One can read and watch today’s media and see the similarities of this horrible time in the politics of the U.S. currently.

Don’t be put off by this. It is a beautiful story with goodness at its heart.

Allina has a wonderful life until one night, everything changes.  She watched her town be destroyed by Nazis and captured herself and taken to Hochland Home. This is a place where women of "pure" Aryan blood are used to birth babies who are then given to Nazi families.  The people there are indoctrinated to go along with the status quo, and all Allina can think of is escaping. With help, she tries to save as many children as possible.

Thoughts 💭
Well, a new nightmare was unlocked for me after reading this.  I had no idea anything like this existed (although I shouldn't be surprised). The fact that women were kept in this home to have child after child horrifies me.  While intense, this topic was well researched and extremely interesting to read about.  The author explains that most information about this program was destroyed, so some things were left up to her imagination. This story was equal parts beautiful, heart-wrenching, and horrifying. The central story of Allina and Karl was so well done!  I was rooting for them through the entire story.  If you're a fan of WWII historical fiction, then don't pass this one up.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I have mixed feelings about this book. It is well written and engaging, but the subject matter is very difficult. Essentially, Hitler's baby factories during WWII to try and create/preserve the "perfect" race. Heartbreaking all around.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher for access to this eARC.

Wow.

Such a heartbreaking, yet important story. The main characters are fictional, yet so beautifully crafted and complex that they feel real. The things that happened in the book are so appalling that I wish they weren't real; but sadly, they were. One thing that blew my mind was how many women *willingly* took part in these Nazi baby factories. Some of the mothers were raped, some were knocked up, some were officers' wives; but there weren't enough husbands to go around in the wake of the population decline following the Great War, and many women actually bought into the idea that this was a good deed in service to the Reich: to give birth to baby after baby, often with different fathers, in order to build the master race.

This is such a thought-provoking book with so many layers to it. No character is one hundred percent as they seem on the surface. Many people, as in real life, are carrying around secrets and hiding pasts that others may never guess.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press for providing me with a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I can't believe this is a debut novel, "The Sunflower House" is a beautifully written historical fiction novel depicting a part of WW2 history I had never heard about before.

The novel follows Allina and her life in Germany in 1939 and how her world is completely thrown off its axis. She finds herself relocated to a nazi run baby factory called Hochland Home and forced to serve as a nurse. Women of "pure" blood stay at Hochland Home for the sole purpose of perpetuating the Aryan population.

This novel was giving "Handmaid's Tale" or "The School for Good Mothers" vibes but is based on the notorious Lebensborn Program of Nazi Germany. I was equal parts horrified and sickened by the scenes depicted in this novel. However, I was also inspired and moved to tears by the bravery Allina displayed to not only save herself but also the children in her care.

I read a lot of WWII historical fiction and this novel surprised me with its unique subject matter, how well it was written and how emotionally invested I became in all the characters of this novel. I think this a historical fiction novel everyone should add to their TBR list.

Thank you St. Martins Press for the ARC.

This is a fabulous debut story, 20 years in the making, that crafts a unique spin on the Lebensborn program in Germary just before and during WW2. Allina experienced horrible tragedies in a short span of time and ends up in Hochland Home, one of the many Lebensborn locations, protected by the German officer who abused her. Allina finds an inner strength and pushes forward to work with the babies at the home. Over time, she realizes that the toddlers are not being cared for in an appropriate manner. Once she meets Karl, another German officer, she recognizes a kindred spirit. They become part of the resistance to find better ways to care for the children and work to get other Jewish children out of the country. Allina and Karl both have secrets that must be hidden at all costs to keep themselves and others safe.
The story is told through recollections by Allina to her daughter in 2006 about what happened to her and how she came to live in the US and never before shared stories from that time.
Allina and Karl are well developed characters that are entirely fictional, but I so hoped they had been real people that helped the children. The setting descriptions are vibrant and let the reader into the book. The author notes explain in detail how the book came to be after 20 years and what was real and fictional. A little disappointed when I found out Allina and Karl were fictional, but the main point of the story about the Lebensborn programs was carefully written to immerse the reader into the philosphy of the program. I will be carrying this story in my heart for a while. My rating is a 4.25 stars.
If you are looking for a page turner of a story, I highly recommend this debut!
#TheSunflowerHouse #NetGalley #historicalfiction
Thank you St. Martin's Press and Net Galley for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.