This is the second book I’ve read by Daisy Wood, and once again, she’s done it! Another beautifully told, captivating story that had me hooked from the very start.

This was an easy five-star read for me. I absolutely loved the dual timeline – both stories were engaging, and I really warmed to the characters in each. It’s such a touching story, and I have to admit, it left my eyes brimming with tears. I have a feeling this one will stay with me for a long time.

Daisy Wood’s writing is stunning – so atmospheric and immersive. The mystery element kept me turning the pages, eager to piece everything together. And I’m happy to say I didn’t quite manage to work it all out, so the ending took me by surprise!

The story is set in 1930s Berlin and present-day America. I found the contrast between the two timelines fascinating – from Freya’s struggles against the rising Nazi regime and the heartbreaking censorship of books, to Maddie’s modern-day work crisis and the discovery of her grandfather’s hidden family history. As Maddie helps her grandad sort through his belongings, they come across a diary written in German by his mother, leading them on a journey to uncover her past.

The way the story came together was seamless, and the pacing flowed effortlessly. The historical details gave such a vivid insight into life in Berlin during that era, and I really appreciated how the novel explored different viewpoints at the time. I often think I might struggle with historical fiction, but Daisy Wood always makes it feel so intriguing, heartfelt, and relevant.

The characters were wonderfully developed, and I genuinely cared about their journeys. Both timelines felt equally compelling, which isn’t always the case with dual narratives, but here it worked perfectly.

Overall, this was an emotional, thought-provoking read that felt very relevant. I highly recommend it – an easy 5 stars from me!

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Daisy Wood is fast becoming an auto-buy author for me!

I am absolutely in LOVE with this book! The Banned Books of Berlin by Daisy Wood is a beautifully written story filled with mystery, intrigue, love, family, scandal, and so much more. Set in Berlin in the 1930's and the present-day US, the book tells the story of Freya, a young German woman who watches in horror as the Nazi party gains power, her home no longer safe. Freya cannot sit back and watch the censorship of people, burning of books, and the brutal attacks in the streets and decides to take a stand, soon finding her own life in danger.

The book flashes forward to Maddie who in present day is dealing with a work crisis. She decides to take some time away and goes back home to be with her family where she spends time with her grandfather who is downsizing his belongings. While helping him purge the attic, the two come across a diary belonging to her great grandmother. Intrigued, she begins researching and is shocked by what she discovers.

I was captivated by the story from the very beginning. As the story shifted back and forth from one generation to the other, I could not decide which portion intrigued me the most. In many cases with books written in this style, I will connect with one or the other, but with this book, I was equally captivated. The history and fiction were tied so effortlessly together. While I was aware of the burning of books and the other ongoings that took place, this book told the story from a different angle than other historical fiction novels I have read and gave me a different viewpoint which I appreciated.

This story was woven together brilliantly. With such rich and identifiable characters, it flowed so easily. A story of family, love, bravery, strength, sacrifice and hope. It was inspiring, heartbreaking, and completely fulfilling.

There are SOOOOOO many more things I would like to say about this book, but I do not want to give away any potential spoilers and take away from the experience. So, I guess for now all I can say is........This book is a must read!! If you are thinking, "do I want to read this one or not" don't think....Just read!!!!

A huge thank you to Avon for allowing me the honor to read an ARC of this book. I will be purchasing a copy for my bookshelf on release day. To the author, you have an amazing gift. Thank you for this wonderful piece of work!

this book was an incredible read. it kept me Hooked all the way through. just when I thought I had everything figured out, something unexpected happened making it impossible to put down. the ending was a complete surprise, leaving me both shocked and satisfied.

what made the story even more engaging was how its felt incorporated so many present day topics, making it feel relevant and thought provoking. the mix of suspense, surprises and real world themes. this is a must read book.

The past can affect us emotionally when it starts to feel a bit like the present.

It was startling in the beginning when the author shared PEN America’s report that more than 10,000 books were banned in public schools in the academic year 2023-24. It’s huge.

This was an original WWII historical novel of a how Freya Amsel in her 20s had to adjust to the dire circumstances. Like her mother, she loved to read and when she heard that 25,000 books by Jews and gays were destroyed in flames on May 10, 1933 she was horrified.

This story was well written with a jolt of history reminding us of Hitler’s power shaking up the world. It started in Berlin with his dishonest rhetoric in the early 1930s when he told bold lies to the people of Germany. It was the beginning of the gruesome tactics that caused fear and hate towards the Jews.

There were two timelines: one which took the reader back to Berlin before the war, and the other in 2024 with a family in LA trying to make sense of boxes in the attic with old records. When digging deep, they discovered past family secrets.

Even though much of the history is known, there was enough suspense to keep the pages moving quickly. It was encouraging to read how a few brave characters challenged evil corruption when it could have been easier and safer in many cases to take a back seat.

It’s fiction but believable with those who were willing to take risks. It was deeply felt and gives us a glimpse of the past we hope will never return and inspiration we all need especially now.

My thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of July 15, 2025.

Wow. This moved between 1931 and present day. Set between Berlin and America. A very moving story at times. I did enjoy it but it makes you hate what happened between the wars in Germany .It was a clever story with some good twists. A very clever neat ending. Loved it

Daisy Wood does it again! She’s written an absolutely incredible historical fiction that I devoured, I couldn’t put it down, I was so fascinated by Freya’s story and also by Maddie and her grandpa’s stories. This book was a really good one and if you are a fan of WW2 fiction, you definitely need to read it.

This book was an incredible read! It kept me hooked from start to finish with its many twists and turns. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, something unexpected would happen, making it impossible to put down. The ending was a complete surprise, leaving me both shocked and satisfied.

What made the story even more engaging was how it incorporated so many present-day topics, making it feel relevant and thought-provoking. The mix of suspense, surprises, and real-world themes made this book a must-read. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a story full of excitement and unexpected moments!

Thanks so much to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for giving me an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was a great read by an author who was new to me. It is the type of historical fiction that I like the best. Strongly rooted in fact, with a dual timeline bringing the story into the present day.

The novel follows two females, Freya in 1930's Berlin and Maddie in 2024 in the USA. There is no immediate obvious link between the two females, but as their stories are gradually told, alternating between the two timelines, the link is revealed.

Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

Many thanks to NetGalley for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Emotional read that really makes you think. I loved it! Can't complain about it a bit! I devoured it!

If I could give this book 10 stars I would. I cannot recall having read such an interesting novel in a very long time and I have read and reviewed many. This books seeps into your blood and wont let you go until you have turned the last page. Riveting and mysterious this book will keep you guessing and I guarantee you will be unable to guess the ending! This novel will give you a different look at the war that I am unsure you will have read anywhere else or in any other book. With a dual timeline one during the actual war the other in modern day America, both timelines keep you intrigued and their timing is impeccably matched to the general theme of the book. This way of writing keeps you totally engrossed in each chapter and will have you interested in one era then when you have to give that timeline and go to the other its with deep conflict as you want to know more about what is happening in that era then when you get back to that era you will still be wrapped into the other era.. The authors way of writing this story was above reproach and how she pieced it together to it's final climax will leave you breathless. The novel will give you a total understanding how Germany tore up families and ripped them apart and how mercilessly they hunted the ones they didn't agree with, how they burned the works of great artists so that they young would not be swayed by other ideals and how bad the German people had it prior to the war. All in all a must read if you enjoy historical fiction during the war the way that I do. I would highly recommend that you place this book on your TBR shelf. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

What an amazing story! The story interweaves the narrative between modern day LA and early 1930s Germany beautifully. The story pays attention to the importance of books and the need to prevent censorship which is such a topical and needed discussion in today's world. I particularly enjoyed the rich descriptions and exploration of Germany as the Nazi State rises pulling apart the beauty, liberty and cultural awareness of the Weimar Republic. Centered within the history is a beautiful story of love, friendship and family which I was absolutely captivated by. The characters were well developed and I immediately felt connected to them and was eager to find out the journey they had taken over the 90 year gap between narratives. I also enjoyed the nods to scholarly works whether it was the books burned by the Nazis' or the links to the rising medium of film; it was great to see some of my favorites pop up between the pages. Thank you Daisy Wood for a wonderfully written and researched book!

In Berlin in the 1930s, Freya is coming to realise that her life is about to change, following the death of her mother Ingrid, with the realisation that she is expected to give up her dreams in order to get a job and look after her family. Add to that the way that life in Germany was changing, with attacks against the Jewish community, the rise of Hitler and the collapse of her relationship with her father and brother, she needs to do something for herself.

In present day Maddy is reeling from a hateful campaign on social media about an article she wrote, so heads to her family home for some breathing space.

This is another skilfully written book by Daisy Wood, successfully capturing the atmosphere of pre war Berlin, where hatred of anything different is being stamped out, persecution is everyday and the party line is the only thought that is allowed. I really enjoyed a dual time line story, and this is so atmospheric, a compulsive read with relatable characters. You can tell the author is passionate about her subject

Freya is determined not to be sidelined and also wanting to make her own, albeit small, stand against the new regime, a dangerous thing to do but one she feels she needs to do. Maddies family are close but in for a few shocks. I loved the real twist at the end, never saw that coming. Highly recommended.

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

First I want to thank Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this copy of The Banned Books of Berlin.

I LOVED this book! It was fantastic! I loved the setting of this book, the writing was fantastic. I’m definitely going to read more from this author. I also want to reread this at some point as I just fell in love.

I was immersed in this from the beginning. I just loved how the story flowed so well and I found the characters so likeable. This was amazing. Definitely would recommend picking this book up!

This is my first book by this author and it won't be my last, I absolutely loved it and couldn't put it down. The writing is so engaging and the story was so compelling. I loved it.

Another wonderful book from Daisy Wood. Going between 1930’s Germany and 2024 America the storyline follows Freya and Violet and their family and friends leading up to WW2 and Maddie and her family and friends as they try to find out more about their relatives. Although I love this genre I did wonder why the book is called what it is as I was 2/3rds through before the book banning became an issue. Thanks to Daisy and her publisher Thanks also to NetGalley

A dual time line story from one of my favourite authors, Daisy Wood. This book is set in Berlin during the 1930’s and present day in the United States. It is 1930 and Freya’s mother has passed away leaving Freya afloat. She is expected to give up her studies and look after her father and brother as well as earn a wage to assist with the household budget. The Nazi party is gaining power and Freya watches on in horror as ‘banned’ books are being burnt.
In present day Maddie returns to her childhood home to take some time out from her work. She assists her grandfather in clearing his attic where they come across a diary written by Maddie’s great grandmother, Freya. This sets Maddie and her grandfather on a quest to find out more about this woman.
I love how the past and future weave together to tell a wonderful story. It is heartbreaking in parts but a story of love, family and bravery. An emotional historical fiction read. Another 5/5 read by Daisy Wood

An chilling but engaging book firstly set in Berlin in the early 1930s as Hitler and the Nazi party come into power. It was interesting to read some of the background from this period from the point of view of Freya, who was an ordinary German girl. Whilst not in one of the groups in direct danger from the new regime, Freya nonetheless sees the dangers with many friends under threat and becomes involved in her own way with the resistance against the rising tide distancing herself from her family. The second time frame is in America in 2024, with a family tracing their family's past. Well researched and made very readable about this time in history with Daisy's style of writing.

I was absolutely thrilled to receive an advanced read of The Banned Books of Berlin by Daisy Wood from Netgalley and Avon Books. This was my second read by Daisy Wood, and this book exceeded my expectations (which were high to begin with!).

Set in the 1930’s and 2024, this book has a dual timeline, both of which I found to be incredibly engaging.

In the late 1930’s Freya is a young woman in Berlin, watching in horror as the Nazi regime begins its ascent to power, both in and outside of her home. In 2024, Maddie, Freya’s great-granddaughter, is uncovering her heritage through the discovery of Freya’s diary while sorting through her grandfather’s belongings with him by her side. Freya’s love of books, writing, and her country leads her in directions she never saw coming. Through her story and the pieces put together by her descendants, everyone learns more about who they are than they (and I!) could have possibly expected.

I have read many WWII era books, but very few with so much of the book focused on the early days of Hitler’s rise. Wood does a fabulous job of engaging the reader in both timelines while sharing a story of historical fiction that not only teaches the reader about this important time in history, but also pulls them in from the very first page. While at some points I felt this book was challenging to read given our current state of affairs, this challenge only makes it even more important to pick this book up and get lost in its words. I was totally captivated and truly enjoyed this read!

The historical strand of "The Banned Books of Berlin" is the story of Hitler's rise to power in 1930's Germany. On the one hand are the fanatical supporters who would sell out their own families, and on the other are the more enlightened people who can see the potential of this man to destroy their country, it's culture and many lives. We see developments through the eyes of Freya; her father lost his is original business in the Depression, her mother dies and her brother becomes a Nazi supporter.

The modern strand features journalist Maddie who is taking a break from work as she suffers from online trolls. A discovery whilst helping her grandfather to declutter his apartment leads to her investigating her family history.

The historical strand stops, unusually, before the outbreak of WW2, making for a more interesting read, especially as the characters are ordinary Berliners from different backgrounds.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Daisy Woods alternates between two timelines, 1930's Berlin and the present day in New York, the intertwined stories of Freya, an avid reader in Nazi Germany and Maddie, a modern day young woman who has taken time off work to visit her family.

This read is a captivating novel that highlights the enduring power of books and the courage of those who fight to protect them.

In 1933 Berlin, Freya, a passionate reader, watches in horror as the Nazi regime tightens its grip on Germany, targeting "un-German" literature. Freya has been a gifted student and her teacher had recommended university but with her father's attitude and the declining economic conditions of the country she knows that this dream is impossible. Her mother near to death from illness implores her to leave home, to start a new life. She was a successful seamstress but knows that Freya does not have this talent. Circumstances dramatically change after her mother's death, a boarder is taken in, a passionate Nazi and Freya senses his ever watchful eye. She decides to leave and ends up at a nightclub where she manages to obtain employment. This is such an eye opener, a different world, new and colourful friends.

Determined to resist the destruction of books Freya puts a plan into place and secretly hides banned books, risking everything to preserve the voices the regime wants silenced. Her story is one of bravery, sacrifice, and the heartbreaking choices faced under a dictatorship. After an incident that puts her in extreme danger she has no choice but to leave the country, which in itself holds great risk.

In present-day New York, Maddie while visiting and sorting some of her grandfather's possessions stumbles upon a mysterious collection tied to pre-war Berlin. As she unravels the story behind these lost treasures, she uncovers secrets that connect her to Freya’s past. Maddie’s journey is equally compelling, as she navigates her own struggles while piecing together a history that was almost erased.

The read masterfully weaves both narratives, immersing readers in the oppressive atmosphere of 1930s Berlin while keeping them engaged with a contemporary mystery. The novel’s themes, resistance, the importance of literature, and the impact of the past on the present are beautifully explored. The characters are richly developed, and the historical details are well-researched, making the story both educational and emotionally resonant.

Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for this advanced reading copy and for the opportunity to comment and review.

What a beautifully written story! The way Daisy Woods writes is incredible, making you feel like you are in the story. I loved the two different timelines, and it wasn’t hard to follow along. The character development is well done, and I was invested in their story. If historical fiction is your thing, I believe you’ll love this book. I definitely recommend this one.

I received a free copy of, The Banned Books of Berlin, by Daisy Wood, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Freya lives in Berlin in 1933, during the war, she is saddened by her city being destroyed, and has tough choices to make. Maddie lives in New York in present day, she finds out about Freya, and her story. This was a really good read.

The Banned Books of Berlin is a fantastic and interesting read .Set in the 1930's in Berlin just before Hitler became rose to power .Written in two timelines 1930's and 2024 when a Family in Los Angeles find a box in the attic and discover past Family secrets .There are two main characters Freya in Berlin and Maddie in America. I do enjoy when a story is told in two timelines I think the reader gets more of the story this way .Freya was very strong in a time that was dangerous to be brave .I think the ending was very good with all ends being tied up nicely .Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.

This is the second book I’ve read by Daisy, and it did not disappoint. The dual timeline was expertly crafted, weaving past and present together in a way that felt seamless and engaging. The storylines intertwined beautifully by the end, making for a satisfying and emotional read.

Freya was a standout character—I felt deeply connected to her journey, experiencing her joy, pain, determination, and resilience along the way. Her story was compelling and heartfelt, making it easy to root for her throughout the book.

I’d highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, particularly those who appreciate rich character development and well-executed dual timelines.

I received a copy of the book "The Banned Books of Berlin" from NetGalley. This book takes place in two eras. The 1930s in Berlin. and 2024 in the USA. Freya lives in Berlin in 1933 she is witnessing the slow changes that is happening. Hitler is starting his evil hatred in Germany. she sees her own relatives siding with Hitler. She takes a job in a cabaret sewing costumes. Meets new friends. while there she hears about book burning that Hitler has ordered. She helps to save these books by hiding them. She faces danger with many more Germans siding with Hitler becoming Nazis. She is not Jewish but has Jewish friends including Leon who she loves. It becomes more dangerous for her and soon needs to find a way to escape the country she loved to go to England.
In 2024 Maddie who is the great granddaughter of Freya comes to visit her grandfather the son of Freya. she is helping him clear out the attic. While cleaning she finds a diary written in German from Freya. When she has the book translated she learns more of her greatgrandmother's life and the decisions she made all those years ago. she reads of the secrets kept and more of what happened to her. The stories from each era come together good. It took awhile to get to the part of Freya helping to save the books. Otherwise I found this to be a very good read.

What a fantastic book. A completely fictional story set in Berlin in the 1930’s, pre WWII, and using factual events such as the book burnings in 1933. The prologue opens in Oxfordshire, November 1946, where two women are talking - no names, no details. In the 1930’s our main protagonists is Freya, a young German woman who wants to write, but only her mother supports her dreams. After the death of her mother she is treated as a skivvy and ends up leaving her home and her Nazi supporting family. Working and living in a cabaret theatre Freya watches in horror as her beloved city is gradually overtaken by the fascists.

Briefly, in the present, USA, Maddie goes to see her family as her mother is worried about Maddies grandfather who is clearing his home of unwanted stuff in preparation for his death! Maddie offers to help him and during their clearing they find a diary belonging to her grandfather’s mother. Written in German, they ask a new friend to help translate it, and a shocking story emerges.

I’m sure everyone will see the similarity between the book banning in Germany and the current issues in USA where many books have been banned in recent years. It’s very scary! The book is an enthralling read and whilst I enjoyed both timelines the historical one really touched me. Such a terrible time in history and the treatment of those Hitler decided were enemies of the state was beyond appalling. Freya is a wonderful character and her actions were brave and far reaching. A fabulous read. I enjoyed it a lot.

The Banned Books of Berlin is a gripping read that is beautifully written that has it all: mystery, intrigue and family.

The book is told in a duo timeline.

Present day we meet Maddie who has returned home for a visit and along with her grandfather they find a diary written by her great grandmother.

Its Berlin in the 1930's just as Hitler is coming into popularity and Freya like most of Berlin are struggling to adapt to their new reality.

There is danger around every corner and you dont know who you can trust.

Books are being banned and Freya feels the only thing she can do to contribute is to save the books.

The two timelines come together easily and its fascinating to compare the two eras. Some things like banned books are the same sadly.

Daisy Wood takes the reader on an unforgetable journey and simply put has written historical fiction at its very best.

I highly recommend you get your copy of The Banned Books of Berlin and settle in for an unforgettable read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK/Avon for the privilege of reading and reviewing The Banned Books of Berlin.

This book was an amazing read. It was filled with scandal, love, mystery, bravery, despair, and strength. It had so many good twists and turns; the ending was a complete surprise, leaving me hooked to the very end. I loved the dual timeline; both stories were engaging. It’s such a touching story.

The historical details gave such a good insight into life in Berlin during that era, reminding us of Hitler's lies and power shaking up the world. The story started in Berlin in the early 1930s; it was the beginning of Hitler's rise to power and the start of gruesome tactics that caused hate and fear towards the Jews. Though the story is fiction, it gives us a glimpse into the past and a reminder of mistakes we should never repeat.

The beginning was a little slow, but once the story progressed, I couldn’t put it down. Daisy Wood is an amazing writer and I can’t wait to read more of her books. All in all, this book was beautifully written and is a must-read.

The Banned Books of Berlin is a dual timeline story, with the first timeline taking place in the 1930s in Berlin with the Nazi party taking power and Freya Amstel's mother has just died, telling her to leave Berlin and live her life. Freya tries to stay with her father and brother but when they take in a pro-Nazi border, she finds her life changing. She gets a job at the Zaubergarten, which is a cabaret, taking care of their costumes. Daisy Wood writes Freya as a strong, independent woman, and the supporting characters are quirky and interesting. The descriptions of the Zaubergarten made me feel like I was there beside Freya and her friend Violet. The second timeline in 2024 features Maddie, a writer who has been experiencing Internet bullying after writing a story about a zoo (apparently the Internet crazies didn't like the idea that she was writing positively about a zoo because they considered them controversial) and heads back to her roots in Los Angeles to stay with her mother, brother, and grandfather to start to escape from the abuse she experienced. The story went back and forth between the two timelines, with the author weaving the two timelines of the tale skillfully, until almost the final chapter when the true surprising connection between the timelines was revealed. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

This story takes a look at the lead up to WWII. Many events took place in Germany before Hitler gained worldwide notice.
As restrictions tightened, so did the attack upon certain books. Only Nazi approved books could be read. So many books were burned and destroyed. I disagree with the author’s thoughts on America’s recent banning of books. There is a place to protect our children from inappropriate books. That is much different than destroying history.
The main characters are well developed. There are many twists and turns to this story.
There is a dual timeline. The actual characters living in the 1930’s in Germany and their descendants in 2024.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

Daisy Wood is turning into a must read author for me. I really enjoy her dual timeline novels, that are always so well researched.

This dual timeline in this novel covers early Nazi controlled Berlin, pre-war, and the burning of the banned books. Freya is desperate to make a stand for what she believes in, but how can she, a single female, do that? In the modern day, Maddie returns to her family home after an issue with work, and finds herself drawn into a mystery when she discovers a German diary in her Grandfather's home. Can Maddie work out how Freya is linked to her own life?

I must admit to finding the early sections in Berlin hard to get into, but as the story progressed it became faster paced. Once the story was linked between the two timelines, it was a quick read - I really enjoyed how the details were slowly pieced together.

1930s, Germany- Freya watches in shock as Berlin begins to descend into chaos with the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party. She is forced to make a choice - turn a blind eye to the destruction around her or fight back against evil.

Present day, Los Angeles- Maddie’s life is in turmoil so she retreats to her family home to lick her wounds. While there she helps her grandfather clear out his home and discovers his mother’s wartime journal. As the journal is translated by new friends, questions emerge about the past.



Title: The Banned Books of Berlin
Author: Daisy Wood
Publisher: Avon
Release Date: July 15, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️

Dual POVs and timelines can be a tricky balance - both have to be equally as engaging. What kept this from being a 5 ⭐️ read was the second timeline - Maddie’s POV.
I could not put down Freya’s chapters - I kept saying “one more chapter” and reading another after that. Watching the world fall apart and the tension as Freya tries to figure out who to trust was breathtaking. Seeing this timeframe from the perspective of a German artist, who could easily have gone along with the status quo but chose to fight back, was incredibly captivating.

Maddie’s timeline took a little longer to resonate though it did by the end. The work problems that sent her home felt a little forced so it took me longer to care about her struggle. It was ultimately her grandfather and brother’s struggles that brought me into her story and made me care.

A worthwhile read that brings to light that you never really the truth about those to whom you’re close - either for better or worse.

Thank you @netgalley and @avonbooks for the ARC.

The Banned Books of Berlin by Daisy Wood is a heartwarming story. In Berlin, 1933, the night skies are burning bright with huge bonfires of banned books. The Nazi party is swelling in number and Berlin is no longer a safe place for young Freya. She can only watch on as her beloved city falls to fascism - and the usually law-abiding Freya is forced to make a choice: continue being a bystander, or sacrifice herself to save the lives of others.

New York, present day. Maddie commutes home to her family to reset. Struggling to fully turn off from her work, she is surprised to come across a pre-war German diary amongst her Grandpa's things. And when she starts to dig into the diary, Maddie's shocked by what she finds. And so begins a journey that will take Maddie beyond America as she searches for the truth about Freya, and how she changed people's lives across the globe.

Wood does a wonderful job creating an inspirational story of courage and resilience. The Banned Books of Berlin had me turning the pages to the very end. This book is an easy 4 stars. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves historical fiction and thrillers.

I received a free advanced copy and all opinions are my own. I would like to offer my sincerest gratitude to Avon Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

this book perfectly takes it to two different times. its does it so well. this author has had a few books out and i have to say is perfecting her craft and her genre of book writing choice. i cant quite believe how lucky we are that authors like Daisy are as good as they are. because it blows me away. and when you come across books as fab is this, im truly in awe.
when historical fiction is done well its hits me deep. and is one of my must read genres every time. especially the ones surrounding war. i love them. and this one is right up there with my best.
we span two ladies timelines. first is Freya. who is living within berlins walls at the time of the burning of the books. and a time where she is no longer feeling safe in her city. the Nazis are gradually gaining power and showing it in any way they can. but Freya cant see this happening to her city anymore. she cant stand this feeling of fear anymore. and so she decides to do something both brave and dangerous. can she come out of this? and how when such decisions dont always end well in this war torn era.
then we have Maddie. her story is more our time. shes not doing well in her own world either. she needs a break from some stuff that is happening at work so decides to go home. there she helps her grandfather sort out his belonging so he can move house for a simpler life. on doing so they come across a diary belong to her great grandmother. they read on and in doing so unopen secrets and life they new nothing of. some shocking tales unfold from the pages and Maddie has to work through them both fugitively and emotional.
can you just imagine coming across a diary of someone in the war who went through even more than we imagined?

The story in a few words:

Berlin 1933

Horrified, Freya sees her beloved city fall to fascism. Berlin is no longer a safe place; she is now forced to make choices as the night skies are burning bright with huge bonfires of banned books. Will she stay on the sideline or sacrifice herself to help others…..

New York present day:

In New York, Maddie comes across a pre-war diary amongst her grandfather’s things. Shocked by what was written Maddie digs deeper thus begins a journey across time…..

My thoughts:

This story is atmospheric and the words immerse the reader in the mystery smoothly. It is easy to let ourself go with the flow and picture the coming and going as the story progresses. Eventually it all comes together seamlessly as we reach the last words. I like Freya and Maggie’s characters they are warm and intriguing and as each take turns describing what they are seeing and feeling it is easy to imagine being with them.

Ms. Wood style is engaging and the story is well-said and well-done. But for those who are historical fiction buff as I am this story is far from being original. It has been said many times. On a positive note, I agree revising horrors of war should always be remember and what better way then to express what happened in words.

This book takes place in two time periods: 1930s Berlin narrated by Freya and 2024 Los Angeles narrated by Maddie. The book opens in Berlin with the death of Freya's beloved mother who tells her to leave home and make her way in the world. Freya ends up as a seamstress in a cabaret club where she meets Violet, a popular British dancer. This time period moves forward with the advent of the Nazi takeover and all things Freya holds dear threatened, including all of the literature she's grown to love.

In 2024, Maddie returns home to L.A. from Portland after she's been attacked online over a story she's written about a zoo. In L.A. she learns that her grandfather is planning for his death, by cleaning out his apartment and participating in a "death cafe."

The two timelines continue as we learn that Freya is Maddie's great grandmother, whose diary, written in German, Maddie discovers.

The compelling aspect of this novel is the story about Freya in Berlin. Maddie's story pales in comparison until possibly her final chapters, which could have just been told by Freya. I know the author needed Maddie to bring Freya's work to light, but it just felt like there was a lot of unnecessary work put into the Maddie portion of the book.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.

From the description of this book you could be forgiven for thinking it’s just another book about the atrocities of the Second World War and to an extent it is but it is also so much more. The story dips between two timelines and countries, pre-war Berlin and modern day America.

Without giving any spoilers, anyone who loves a family saga with secrets galore or loves a historical fiction book with brave heroines and hero’s, or just wants to learn more about pre-war Germany and what it was like for Germans at that time, particularly young adults

I loved the book and it did give me another perspective of the Second World War, one that is not really thought of before

We meet Freya in 1930 in Berlin as she struggles to survive and as Hitler starts to get his power.

Then we meet Maddie in 2024, the great granddaughter of Freya, when she returns home to Los Angeles after an awful incident at work.

While helping her grandfather throw out things, Maddie finds a diary that her grandmother had written. What an incredible find!!

What does Maddie find?

You will love Freya and Maddie, and the storyline will keep you glued to the pages with both timelines holding your interest.

Freya keeps you biting your nails as she tries to hide books along with other ordeals.

Maddie will have you rooting for her to succeed at what she is wishing for.

THE BANNED BOOKS OF BERLIN is a tribute to how important books are and will have you reading non-stop. 5/5

Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Such a great book! If you enjoy books about WWII and finding a lost diary, you will love this! I’m continually fascinated by WWII stories.

Such a lot of great research went into this book. It captured my attention from the start. A dual timelined read, with well crafted characters. Very enjoyable

Daisy Wood has become one of my favorite Historical Fiction writers. She always takes me on a journey back to the time of World War 2. I close every book knowing more, understanding more and wanting to know more.

Once Again she has taken me on a journey I will not soon forget. The dual time line allows the reader to learn about Freyal Amsel, Maddie's great-grandmother, and her life in 1930's Berlin. Maddie collects a few things while helping her grandfather clear out his apartment. A few items soon becomes a obsession to learn of Freya's life before arriving in America.

Freya is not living her best life. Her mother has died and she now has more responsibilities. She finds herself taking care of a home. She is trying to keep a business running and failing. She soon finds herself working outside the home taking care of costumes for performers. It isn't enough. Still struggling financially; they take in a boarder, Walther Grube.

The more Walther Grube talked about Hitler, the more her brother and father sided with the Nazis. Freya did not see things the same way. She could not comply. She could not stay in the same place as Walther Grube. Living in a small room in the theater is better than living at home.

Through her eyes; the reader witnesses the beginnings of Hitler's influence and control. Experience the horrors inflicted by the Brownshirts. Feel the heat caused by banned books being burned. My heart broke over Freya's struggles. What was happening in Berlin was atrocious. Knowing it was just the beginning had me in tears. I couldn't hope but wish for her to find happiness. I soon learn that the war might have ended, but struggles still remain.

The Banned Books of Berlin by Daisy Wood is a dual timeline novel set in early Nazi-controlled Berlin and present day. It follows Freya’s struggles in the 1930s and Maddie’s perspective in 2024, revealing their interconnected lives. If you’re a fan of WW2 fiction, read it.

I received an ARC of The Banned Books of Berlin by Daisy Wood from the publisher and from Netgalley.

I always love picking up historical fiction books and this one is no different. I've read The Clockmaker's Wife from this author and thoroughly enjoyed it like I did this one.

I love how this book flips between the 1930's with Freya and present time while Maddie undertakes a journey after discovering a pre-war German diary amongst her Grandpa’s things.

This story pays important attention to books and the need prevent censorship as done by the Nazis during WWII. It shocked me a little when the author shared PEN America’s report that more than 10,000 books were banned in public schools in the academic year 2023-24.

Freya is horrified to find that 25,000 books by Jews and gays were destroyed in flames on May 10, 1933. The author perfectly wrote the jolting history of Hitler's power shaking Germany in the post WWI era with his rise to power.

I was immersed in the story from the beginning and could not get enough of it. I needed to follow the story to see where Maddie's journey into her family's past brought her and to find out what happened for Freya in the years following 1933.

I will defiantly be picking up more books from this author!

I felt like after a bit of a slow start, this book too off and truly showed the hardships of WW II, but also the beauty of books in times of hardship. The characters find a way into your heart, and the complexity of the time period reminds the reader to hold onto hope, resilience, family, and books! The power of a good book is priceless.

This was another winner from Daisy Wood. I love historical fiction and having visited Berlin, the story was even more interesting to me personally.

This novel has a dual timeline from 1930’s Berlin to present day LA. I love how a lot of our history defines us, and how Maddie in the present day, finds clues and uncovers her family’s history . This took me on a journey to 1930’s Berlin where Freya’s fascinating story had me reading with tears in my eyes.

Although I had heard of the burning of books in Berlin this novel really makes you think deeper with such insightful descriptions, uncovering the horrors which many people experienced WW11.

The story was expertly crafted, both timelines were bursting with wonderful characters. A story of bravery, sacrifice, family, and love. I didn’t want the book to end. Leaving me thankful that I have the freedom to enjoy and read anything I want to.

This book will keep you enthralled throughout.
It is the story of Freya Amstel who lives at home with her parents and brother, when her mother is dying she pleads with Freya to get out. Not quite understanding what is meant by this this Freya stays put, keeping house for the men, that is until with war looming and not liking how her brother Otto is coming under the spell of the nazis she decides it’s time to go and sets up accommodation in her workplace Zaubergarten, where she is in charge of the costumes. The only drawback with this is that one of the girls Violet appears to be getting close to Leon Kohl who Freya has had a crush on for years, how will affect their friendship? Freya is one brave lady who defies the Nazis by hiding books and going about dropping cardboard bombs.
She has secret talents that others either ridicule or only to happy to take advantage of, but the Freya uses this to get someone close to her to safety.

Present day is the story of Maddie who is helping her grandad death cleansing, which leads to the finding of documents that send her on a search. This is helped when she visits the death cafe with her grandad and meets Eva and grandson Daniel,
Daniel offers to help her , which leads to some amazing discoveries.

Favourite character was Freya for being so helpful & trusting. Least favourite was Rupert for being a cad.
Enjoyed that while you maybe worked out some things, others came as a surprise.

The banned books of Berlin is wonderful book to read.

Daisy Woods' latest novel The banned books of Berline is a book with two timelines. The story begins with young Freya growing up in pre-war Germany. When her mother dies, she is left with her brother and father. The crisis makes things difficult for them and brother Otto feels attracted to the new Nazi regime. When a tenant who idolizes Hitler is also taken in, Freya leaves home. She goes to work in a theater, but there too changes are coming, partly because of the Jewish colleagues. Freya does not leave it at that and starts her own resistance, which ends in a dramatic moment.

In the second timeline, it is about Maddie in America who is bothered by internet trolls and goes back home from Boston to distance herself for a while. Then she discovers something about her grandfather and great-grandmother and starts researching the past. What she discovers is an impressive story about a special woman.

Woods has a nice way of writing. It is very compelling and visually elaborated. As a reader, you can see all the locations in front of you, you feel the changing atmosphere in pre-war Germany and the characters are well portrayed. The story that takes place in America also comes into its own, although this is more of a counterpart to the historical part, it still has a message through being online and the negative reactions that can result.

The choice to tell a historical story that is not about WWII, but about the period before that, means that it is not just another war story, but rather brings to the fore a history that is well-known but receives less attention, namely the book burnings and the changes in Germany in the 1930s.

The banned books of Berlin is a beautiful and impressive novel, with a historical part and a contemporary part, which provides variety and is woven into a complete story. With well-developed characters and an interesting history, it is a wonderful book to read.

A brilliant historical dual time line story which had me fully engaged from start to finish. Great characters and written so well it kept me turning the pages at speed.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.

This deeply moving historical novel weaves together two timelines in a compelling and emotional journey of courage, resilience, and the power of the written word. The contrast between 1930s Berlin, where Freya is forced to make impossible choices under the rise of fascism, and the present-day search for truth through a forgotten diary, creates a rich and immersive narrative. The way past and present intertwine keeps the story gripping, with each revelation adding layers of depth and meaning.
The emotional weight of the story is beautifully balanced with moments of hope and connection, making it both heartbreaking and inspiring. The historical details feel vivid and well-researched, adding to the authenticity of Freya’s struggles and Maddie’s discoveries. This is a story that lingers long after the last page, reminding us of the enduring impact of bravery, books, and the voices that refuse to be silenced. A must-read for fans of dual-timeline historical fiction with strong, unforgettable heroines.

Enjoyed reading this historical fiction novel. Seemed far too close to some current news events. Loved the mix of the historical events and the internet trolls - a reminder that each generation has different challenges.

Book banning is a divisive topic, one which is unfortunately relevant today as well as other times throughout history. But before and during World War II, it was particularly alarming and severe as huge fires were built for book burning. The only course of action was to hide/transport books in secret which meant risking lives. This dual timeline novel takes place mostly in Berlin, before the war in the 1930s and in the present time. The Nazis grew in power alarmingly fast and brutally and any book which was un-German was banned and/or burned, including many beloved Classics.

Before dying, Freya's mother told her to get out and do what she wanted to and was good at rather than being stuck with something she hated. Her mother was an incredible seamstress who taught her daughter the painstaking and beautiful work. Though it was not where Freya's heart was, she had to work to contribute to her family financially. She found a seamstress job at a theatre but starting writing as well. Disgusted with the book burning, she participated in the "rescue" of books which at times meant pretense on her part.

In present day America, Maddie discovers her grandpa kept a diary from the time of the war, jam packed with lots of secrets pertaining to her great grandmother. Maddie was eager to learn more about her family's history, especially during the war. What she found out surprised her.

For me one of the most interesting aspects about the novel was reading more about the pre-war era and Hitler's terrifying rise to power. I enjoyed the 1930s timeline more than the current one with the importance and preciousness of books highlighted, including some of the titles of books I've had the pleasure of reading. It is impossible to comprehend the sheer numbers of works pointlessly destroyed. This novel is moving and powerful and I really enjoyed my time with it.

✨4 stars✨

This was a really enjoyable historical fiction with dual timelines: one in 1930s Germany and the other in the US in 2024.

I read this book really quickly as I found the writing really engaging! I especially empathised with the character of Freya but there were a plethora of interesting characters that felt incredibly real.

I would definitely recommend this book!

I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

I loved this book. Daisy Wood writes really readable and engaging historical fiction. I loved switching between two different time periods, and how Maddie uncovered Freya’s story with us. This book was excellent in describing the Nazi’s rise to power, and how terrifying it must’ve been to see such a dramatic change in your home country. Sometimes I feel like the information was a little on the nose, and it felt like a simplified guide to the third reich, but then if other readers aren’t as knowledgeable able Germany in the thirties this would’ve been helpful.

Overall I thought this was a thrilling and moving historical fiction.

A dual timeline set mostly in Berlin in the 1930s and Los Angeles 2024. In Berlin in 1930 Freya, was looking forward to going to teacher training college but everything changes when her mother dies, and Freya has to give up her studies and dreams of being a writer and find work to help out her family.

Life is not easy for Freya, she has a few friends but is always afraid of being betrayed, especially when she starts trying to save books from being burnt.

In the United States in 2024, Maddie is a journalist, she travels to Los Angeles to help her grandfather who is downsizing and clearing out clutter in his house. Among his precious items, is a diary that was his mother’s written in German, a burnt book and a typewriter.

I loved the way Maddie researches her grandfather’s life and her great grandmother’s life in Germany and United States.

This was about burning of banned books, WW2, families and friendships. Secrets and lots of action as Freya in Germany tries to save books from being burned in 1933.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher Avon, a division of HarperCollins for a chance to review this E-Book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Freya is a young girl trying to find her way before everything changes in Germany. She’s strong and determined along with Violet who’s a friend.
This story was told with dual timelines. It’s full of surprises and some secrets. It’s a good historical fiction story.

My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book. I am happy to give my thoughts on this very impactful book. I liked that the story was set in the years leading up to WWII, as what I find to be the most interesting, is the many factors that contribute to Germany being taken over by Hitler and the Nazi’s. Reading about the seeds of hatred and mistrust being sown early, combined with the perfect environment of economic distress, unemployment, anger from the previous war, and overall discontent with their current leadership, was eye-opening and, unfortunately, too relevant today.

Freya was an interesting character, caught between the roles and expectations for women at that time and her developing values and beliefs. I felt for her, and I enjoyed her growth arc. I related to her struggle to want to feel like she is making a difference even though it feels like any action she takes won’t impact her country’s path. This was a challenging read on some levels because it feels as if many parallels are occurring in the US. I see the seeds of hate being sown for immigrants and LGBTQIA+ people (especially trans folks); I see claims of our problems being solved by removing other populations. I see books being banned and library funding being cut, I see the threats to education and diverse perspectives. Freya put it best, saying, “‘Why do I need protecting from ideas? How can they hurt me?’”.

I enjoy a well-done dual timeline story, and the author slowly tied them together quite well. I was invested in finding out how exactly Freya immigrated to California, being resistant to the idea. I liked the mystery of familiar history slowly being unraveled in the modern timeline. The 2024 storyline did seem like it had a few too many focuses that weren’t always related to the overall messaging in the book, but I still enjoyed reading about Maddie and her family. I thought the characters were well flushed out, and I loved Gramps.

The Banned Books of Berlin is a captivating dual-timeline novel that masterfully intertwines past and present. In 1930s Berlin, Freya struggles to survive amidst the rise of Hitler and the growing threat of censorship. Fast forward to 2024, where Maddie, Freya’s great-granddaughter, returns to Los Angeles after a traumatic incident at work. While helping her grandfather sort through old belongings, Maddie uncovers her grandmother’s diary, which sets her on a journey to uncover their shared family history.
The novel beautifully blends historical fiction with contemporary issues, focusing on the power of books and the dangers of censorship, a theme that remains relevant today. The connection between Freya’s and Maddie’s timelines is seamless, with both stories equally gripping. The rich historical detail brings Berlin in the 1930s to life, while Maddie’s emotional journey in the present-day adds depth.
The characters are wonderfully developed, and I quickly became invested in their lives. The pacing flows effortlessly, with each shift between timelines adding new layers to the narrative. Themes of love, friendship, and family are at the heart of the story, making it both poignant and thought-provoking. Daisy Wood’s writing is engaging and evocative, creating a novel that is fictional yet entirely believable. This book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving history and the stories that shape us.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I enjoyed this book.

It’s a dual timeline story. In 1930, in Berlin, Freya is noticing how the Nazi’s are now taking charge of the country.

Then, in 2024, Maddie who is Freya’s granddaughter finds a diary and reads about her family and the secrets from the past.

I liked the period in history when Berlin was slowly under the Nazi regime. They then made it law to stop any books other publications that didn’t agree with how they operated.

I highly recommend this book.

It was early 1930s in Berlin, and Freya was devastated when her mother, Ingrid, died. Life at home changed, with Hitler on the horizon, her father and brother, supporters, and their tenant a full-blown Nazi. Freya knew she needed to leave the house, and staying in the theatre where she'd been working since her mother died proved to be her salvation. But gradually the situation worsened and when the huge bonfires with the banned books were lit, and something happened to Freya that shattered her fragile confidence, she and her friends knew they needed to leave Berlin.

2024 in New York, and Maddie was helping her grandfather sort through his belongings when they came across items which had belonged to his mother, Freya. Gramps didn't know a lot about his mother, only that he'd loved her dearly, so Maddie set out to research the past. What would they discover?

The Banned Books of Berlin is another exceptional historical novel by Daisy Wood. I've read all the author's historicals and enjoy her meticulous research as she turns her writing into a well written novel. Freya was a courageous, determined young woman, easy to like and cheer on, which I did! Recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & HarperCollins UK for my digital ARC to read and review.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

📚✨Daisy Wood's The Banned Books of Berlin is a thrilling, intelligent historical novel that I feel is more relevant and needed today than ever.

Set in Nazi Germany, it explores the power of words, the bravery of their protectors, and the devastating harm that censorship and tyranny can do. Again, truly relevant to current times.

Wood's tale is dense, engaging the reader in a world in which books are seen as threats and knowledge is an arm. The double timelines add richness, weaving past and present into a blend that makes the pages turn. The characters—particularly the brave book lovers who risk their lives to preserve history—are human and fully realized, making their struggles and sacrifices even more impactful.

The novel is a powerful reminder of the dangers of wiping out history, manipulating information, and muzzling voices. While some moments seemed a bit predictable, the emotional impact and significance of the story far outweighed any minor drawbacks.

A must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts and readers who believe in the enduring power of books. A solid 4-star read that will stay with me for some time to come. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A dual time line novel that moves between Freya in pre-WWII Berlin and her gradndaughter Maddie in 2024 Los Angeles. Know that banned and burned books are only small part of Freya's story, which is focused on all the horrors the Nazis brought as they rose to power. Her story is more interesting than Maddie's (as is so often the case with this conceit). Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Good storytelling and an interesting character in Freya made this a good read.

Banned books! Words to make any obsessive reader cringe! Unfortunately this happened and still happens far too often. Daisy Wood's latest book is set in early 1930s Berlin and present day USA and what a heartrending and totally fascinating book it is. I usually stay clear of WW2 books for some reason I don't fully understand myself but recently have read two both based in Berlin. Needless to say I have learnt a lot!
As always Daisy Wood has researched her topic impeccably. You get a real feeling of the constant state of terror the ordinary people of Berlin must have felt for years before the war started. The characters in the book are well rounded - both the likable and the not so nice - and it is easy to imagine them living their lives in this horrible time. The storyline has family members in the US researching a complicated family connection that allows the narrative to look back on the Berlin period to discover the truth. A brilliant story. Beautifully written. A must for any lover of historical fiction or just if you like a really good story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

in Berlin in 1933 Hitler decrees all the books are to be burnt. The Nazis are gaining power and Freya doesn't feel safe there anymore.
Should she stay or run whilst there is time?

Present Day and Maddie is having a turbulent personal life so goes home to decide on her next move. Helping her grandfather to declutter she finds a pre war German diary and starts looking into it and finding out about Freya.