Not as impressed by this as most readers. There are three stories that kind of intertwine. First, the main story is about an SS officer horrified by the Nazi atrocities, who sends information to a pastor friend in the U.S. before assuming the identity of a German soldier to reach the U.S. to get help. He faces many obstacles along the way, initially from fellow countrymen and then by U.S. law enforcement. Second, a Jewish mother and son in the Netherlands trying to escape the Nazi's and reunite with the husband/father are captured and passed through various work camps. A very common story. Third, the story of a German family in Pennsylvania, who are harassed by the locals, and when the patriarch is falsely arrested for being a spy, the son goes along, eventually ending up with the family being deported back to Germany, after a harrowing experience interred on Ellis Island, where they meet the pastor. I did not connect with the characters, except for the pastor. 2.5 stars, rounded up. ( )

"A man's true wealth is the good he does in this world."

Such powerful and moving stories of three distinct World War II characters. There's the SS Officer struggling with a very heavy conscience desiring to right what's so very wrong. Then there's a sweet young Jewish boy, artistically gifted and seeking glimmers of light through the deepening darkness. Lastly, there's the German-American struggling with prejudice, suspicion and persecution.

I was moved by Ms. Jay's rich prose. She deftly and delicately handles some rather dark material and spins cinematic harrowing narratives. The reader's senses are on heightened alert as each is brought to attention at times throughout the book. The writing is thoroughly engaging as one is transported back to the war years. Ms. Jay's historic research is extensive and spot on!

This is a book of journeys - physical as much as spiritual and psychological. Many scenes within this book are difficult and troubling. Yet, there are those which are tender, heartfelt and at times heartbreaking. All is brought to a satisfying and enriching conclusion.

I am grateful to author Karla M. Jay and Book Circle Press for having provided a free copy of this e-book through Goodreads First Reads. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone. ( )

When We Were Brave by Karla M. Jay is a must read for anyone interested in the history of Germany, America and World War II. Fascinating historical fiction based on the facts of World War II, Germany‘s Final Solution, American responses, and how people were affected by the action or non action of others. This book focuses on three main families and how their lives impact others. It delves into the war, the lives, the suffering and faith of both Individuals and nations. While not a Jewish or Christian book it is written with a Judeo Christian perspective. I thought this book was an excellent example of how God orders our steps.
In the reader‘s guide part of a question was: what would you be willing to do? Today so many still suffer under various socialist rulers and the questions remain the same.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. ( )