Winner of the 2021 Christy Award for Historical Fiction Inspired by the incredible true story of a group of ordinary men and women who dared to stand against evil The ideal of a new Germany swept up Sophie Scholl in a maelstrom of patriotic fervor–that is, until she realized the truth behind Hitler’s machinations for the fatherland. Now she and other students in Munich, the cradle of the Nazi … government, have banded together to form a group to fight for the truth: the White Rose. Risking everything to print and distribute leaflets calling for Germans to rise up against the evil permeating their country, the White Rose treads a knife’s edge of discovery by the Gestapo. Annalise Brandt came to the University of Munich to study art, not get involved with conspiracy. The daughter of an SS officer, she’s been brought up to believe in the Führer’s divinely appointed leadership. But the more she comes to know Sophie and her friends, the more she questions the Nazi propaganda. Soon Annalise joins their double life–students by day, resisters by night. And as the stakes increase, they’re all forced to confront the deadly consequences meted out to any who dare to oppose the Reich. A gripping testament to courage, The White Rose Resists illuminates the sacrifice and conviction of an unlikely group of revolutionaries who refused to remain silent-no matter the cost.
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“All of us can point to darkness in our world. We each have a voice. A ripple can become a flood–a single flame, a fire.” — Author’s Notes
From the first page to the last, I was enthralled by this book. The White Rose Resists is a historical fiction book that is based on the true story of a group of German college students who dared to go against Adolf Hitler and his evil regime during World War II. Sophie Schell and her brother Hans, along with several friends, published a set of leaflets to make others aware of the atrocities being performed against the Jewish people. These White Rose leaflets were few in number and they weren’t even sure if they were succeeding but these brave students continued their secret agenda until they were all imprisoned and executed for their deeds.
Author Amanda Barratt has written a stunning story that relies heavily on the true happenings that occurred between May, 1942 and February, 1943, but she chooses to show her fictional characters continuing their journeys a few more years. The White Rose Resists concludes in June, 1945, after the end of World War II, when we learn the final fates of the fictional characters Annaliese Brandt, Kirk Hoffmann, and a few members of their families.
The words in this book are like poetry and they’re as pertinent for today’s society as they are for the time frame of this story. As I read about the real Sophie, Hans, Alexander, Christoph, and Will, I kept wondering if I could have, or would have, been as brave and determined as they were. Barratt’s words often left me sobbing and I won’t soon forget this powerful story. What more can I say other than I consider that The White Rose Resists is one of the best books that I’ve ever read!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was in no way obligated to write a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.
“In the end, it comes down to the worth you ascribe to freedom. What price you’re willing to pay.” -Sophie Scholl
What a beautiful, harrowing story about a group of young students–many of whom were actual, real people–who took a stand against the WWII wrongdoings of Germany. They knew something was wrong and made a change to fix it. It feels so comparable to things happening now in our world. How funny how history repeats itself.
“Some things you can’t wait to do until you’re strong enough. Some things, you just have to do afraid.”
Amanda Barratt’s talent truly shines in this novel. Her writing is fantastic, well-researched, and I would recommend to anyone. What a beautiful masterpiece that brings history to life!
This is such a wonderful book. It really challenged my own thinking of how I would handle standing up for my own beliefs if put in the same position as the German students of The White Rose. Highly recommend.
Quite frankly, I’m not sure where to begin. This book – it completely blew me away. Barratt is a masterful story teller, and easily connects you with the story. In fact, you feel as if you are part of the story as you are reading. You cannot help but become engrossed in what is happening, and all the emotions start taking over. You’re scared for them. You’re happy when things work out. You’re biting your nails because at any moment one of them could get caught. You’re jumping up and down when they make their marks in the world. And you are floored by all the things that went on during this horrendous time period – things you assumed, but didn’t want to acknowledge, and even things that are new.
Yes – I continue to learn while reading historical fiction novels. Barratt’s research is remarkable. She has every last detail accounted for in each and every scene. In the back of the book, she goes on to tell which characters were real people, and which were fictionalized – something that I always love to read! Truthfully, I kind of wish she were my history teacher. She just makes it come so alive in my mind. Sure, there are things I wish I didn’t have to read about. When you’re reading about Hitler’s era there are tons of things you don’t even want to think about. But they happened. They are real. And Barratt gracefully and beautifully brings them to this story.
Let me be completely honest and tell you that I had a HUGE book hangover after reading this. I could not even fathom how I could start a new book. I tried. My mind wouldn’t let me. That’s how amazing this book is. And rather than continuing to gush about it, because I could go on for hours, I’m just going to say this – READ THIS BOOK. It will touch your heart in ways you never expected. I promise.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Author Amanda Barratt pens a story of resistance against evil and heroism on the part of a group of young adults known as The White Rose.
Barratt has a way of bringing history to life as she takes a true happening and fleshes it out into a wonderful story, without losing the facts. And leaves you breathless while you’re reading.
The White Rose Resists contains real stories about real people, and adds fiction characters who could very well have been real. Using different points of view, Barratt draws her readers into the story, into the settings, into the resistance. If you enjoy historical fiction you must read this story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Within the pages of The White Rose Resists, Amanda Barratt has crafted a heart-wrenching and profoundly moving story of courage, conviction, and sacrifice. Based on actual events, this well-written novel boldly contrasts humanity’s capacity for love and hate, hope and despair, self-sacrifice and cruelty, perseverance and struggle, and faithfulness and uncertainty. With undeniable artistry, Ms. Barratt arranges ink on paper to paint a story that draws the reader into a gripping journey through chilling historical events that challenge the resiliency of the human heart and the human will to oppose evil and fight valiantly for truth, decency, morality, and justice.
Set in Germany during WWII, a young group of university students find that blind obedience to a tyrannical regime becomes unfathomable. At great personal risk, they dedicate themselves to exposing evil and spreading truth. In their raw vulnerability and heartrending authenticity, the characters are simply captivating. Their fears, their needs, their desires, and their actions are wholly believable and gripping. The opportunities, the choices, and the trials that the characters endure are intricately developed, and from them there unfurls a story that is extremely poignant, emotionally-stirring, and thought-provoking.
The White Rose Resists is an utterly breathtaking and moving novel. Ms. Barratt’s talent for storytelling is remarkable. Her writing is well-researched, descriptive, and incredibly immersive. Within every paragraph and page there is deep meaning, real truth, and thoughtful purpose. This tender story is relevant, compelling, unforgettable, and inspiring. I recommend it enthusiastically.
*I was given a copy of this novel by the publisher and NetGalley. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.
As I read this book, I would stop and think about the emotions it was stirring within me. It did that a lot. I thought what would I do in their situation. Would I be brave enough to stand against? The story of these brave young men and women is one that needs to be told. To keep the memory alive of the ones who gave their lives for a cause. Who sought to fight against the evil and destruction their country was filled with. They did something most wouldn’t. And they did it giving God the glory. Definitely a must read story and one that will rank high on my list of favorites for the year. Filled with history and mixed with some fiction this was a well written book on a very difficult subject. The author has done a fantastic job helping us know and remember these brave souls. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated are my own.
The truth of Hitlers ulterior motives are showing through in Germany, as rumors of war breaks out. Uniformed soldiers are being seen everywhere, curfews are in place as well as round ups and blood red banners have been hung all over the city and in every building. The country screams Hitler and the Nazi party.
Sophie feels she needs to do something. She sees everyday how it is affecting her family. The rationing of food, and fuel as well as people no longer having their businesses because of their religious belief. She knows her brother has been up to something, but he is keeping quiet. Meanwhile, she is trying to get through her university classes, when she makes a new friend, Annalise.
Han’s eventually lets Sophie in on his adventures as night, as she promises to help and feels she might have finally found an effort that will help with the war. Well, resisting everything Hitler is trying to do. Han’s makes it clears she could lose her life, and this is literals life or death. There can be no mistakes, no slip ups. Sophie, Hans and a few other recruits of his have all figured out how to get their pamphlets and words out. Resistance, that is what needs to happen.
At first it seems their attempt is futile for all of the work it is taking, and how can they do more than 100 copies, they will need a machine, but those are nearly impossible to get and puts a target on your back. They need to find a way to mass produce thousands of pamphlets. Sophie calls in a favor, with her fiancé and they are in business. They never thought they would have gotten their hands on a machine.
All of their extra time is spent on putting their words on paper, mass producing, mailing or dropping these without getting caught. They have found ways to split up and mail from different cities to make it not so obvious that it is localized. Word is getting around, and there are murmurs of the White Rose group that is printing these pamphlets. Excitement and feeling of doing good is cursing through them all.
Sophie asks to bring in her friend Annalise, another female to help purchase stamps and paper and distribute. A female is less likely to be assumed to be helping with a resistance. They are uneasy about letting Annalise in, her father after all is an SS officer. But she has shared her beliefs with Sophie, and so they give in and trust bringing her in as well.
With all of them working together, they are able to produce thousands of leaflets, but that also makes things more risky as that means that many more have to be mailed or delivered. Rumors are, they are looking for the perpetuators. They are not happy that this is getting the hands of people.
Han’s then decides to take a risk and one night a few of the men, paint the sides of buildings with words and phrases. Including the university. Now there really is uproar over this resistance group, and they really have to be cautionary with everything they say and do. But due to all of their extra time spent on this, they are all becoming exhausted and that is where potential for mistakes is made.
Han’s then decides on a more bold approach, and Sophie won’t let him do it alone. The two are taken amidst the chaos that had ensued and are cuffed and interrogated for hours, and days. Over, and over the same questions, the same bright light, no food or water. But can Sophie and Hans prevail and take it all to their grave without giving up, or will they connect the dots that will lead them to all of the others?
Very well researched and written novel! Thank you to Amanda Barratt, the author for a copy of the book. I really loved this novel and how she wrote it from a few viewpoints. This novel was based on true people, and a true resistance group.
Wow! This was a stunningly powerful read. There’s no way my words will ever be able to do justice to this magnificent, heartbreaking, courageous book.
I can’t believe I didn’t know the true story this was based on. The heroic actions of the White Rose were so inspiring. They knew what the consequences would be if they were caught, but they felt so convicted in what they were doing, in trying to inform the German population of the atrocities their government were committing, they felt they had no other choice. They were all so brave.
I highly, highly recommend this book to everyone. It’s a definite must read. It’s captivating and inspiring and one of the best books I’ve ever read.
There is no way that I can do justice to The White Rose Resists with my simple words. Amanda Barratt has done extensive research into the lives of the students and others involved in the resistance to Nazi propaganda and carnage. How can a small band of students make a difference? How much will it cost them? Will they have the courage they need if they are forced to make the ultimate sacrifice? Questions they ask themselves as they seek to make a difference.
Amanda Barratt breathes life into her characters. So many times I realized that I was holding my breath as I read of the struggles and daring deeds of this small band of dissenters. I was often afraid to read the next page and yet pulled by a force that made me want to know what happened even though I knew the outcome of this historical writing.
Two of the main characters are totally fictional but I without the author’s notes, I wouldn’t have known. This novel is so compelling, so true to history, so heartbreaking, and so convicting, written by an amazing young woman who is already known as a master of her craft.
The writing makes The White Rose Resists a beautiful masterpiece! And through her storytelling gift, Amanda Barratt brings honor to these students and dignity to the work that they did. While it may have been a small part, their stand was huge! Please read this incredible five star and learn of the White Rose!
I’m left amazed and so humbled once again by a phenomenal story. We all know how this story ends, but this author mingles in a few fictional characters and draws us into the lives of those who risked it all to stand up against injustice. What a time for a book like this! I felt their heartaches, their tears, their triumphs, and the legacy that they left behind. Read this to be encouraged and inspired from those who have stood before us! I highly recommend this bookshelf keeper.
Inspiring, heart-rending, and exquisitely written, The White Rose Resists is a story that will stick with me for a long time. Memorable characters and unforgettable detail, combined with impeccable historical research, made this slice of history come alive to me. The main characters, both real and added fictional ones, were vividly drawn and captivating. Amanda Barrett’s powerful story left me in awe of Hans, Sophie, and their friends and the courage and conviction they had to stand for truth and freedom.
“Some things, you can’t wait to do until you’re strong enough. Some things, you just have to do afraid.”
“. . .someday, all of us must stand before God and give account for our actions. Before Him, no one will be able to hide.”
I found myself wondering if I would have had the courage and conviction to do what these young men and women did in speaking out against the evil going on around them, especially when the cost of their actions was so dear and could affect not only themselves but also family and friends. I often feel that, since I’m only one person, my voice won’t count for much, but as Barrett says in her book, “Even the greatest darkness can be breached by the flame of a single candle.” Hopefully, we can each be a candle to others and stand up for what is right and good.
This book is easily one of the most riveting and compelling books I’ve read lately and is one for the keeper shelf. Do yourself a favor and read this one!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own.
Only action can bring absolution!
‘How can we expect righteousness to prevail if there is hardly anyone willing to sacrifice themselves for a righteous cause?’
I am always drawn to books that will teach me more about history. This narrative fills all the criteria – a true account of real people during a time that both fascinates and horrifies. This is the story of Hans and Sophie Scholl and their friends, who stepped out of that comfortable university life to make a difference. ‘Somebody, after all, had to make a start’ —Sophie Scholl
An account that will long stay in your mind, this will certainly start a conversation in your mind as to what price you would be willing to pay for freedom. For these young people, they were not willing to remain silent but rather to be different, knowing that they were not going to be only hearers but also doers! Between the danger and treachery of that time, there is love, hope and extraordinary bravery.
‘Truth is worth everything!’
This digital copy was received through Krefeld Publications and NetGalley. The quotes come directly from the book. My impressions and comments were in no way solicited.
Wow! This book is so good! I found myself completely immersed in the plot as the well-researched history came to life with fictional details. I love reading about characters that are based on true stories, and this novel is full of real heroes who stood up for the wrongs and injustices in the world during a tragic time in Germany’s history. I often found myself pausing in reading as I reflected on their courage despite such risks and dangers. And the story made me think about my own beliefs and what I am doing in our current culture to stand up for those who are voiceless. This story is very well written and it is easy to visualize the scenes and get to know the characters. I cried more than once as I read about their bravery and learned even more about the cruelties of that time period. The spiritual truths were woven seamlessly among the story and were easily relatable. I could say a lot of good things about this amazing book, but it is hard to put into words that way that this story touched me. I highly recommend that you obtain a copy and read for yourself how impactful this book can truly be!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Heart wrenching story of German college students who dared to defy Hitler. Sophie Scholl and her fellow students form The White Rose, a group seeking the truth about the new Germany. While this book has a different feel than the author’s previous book on Bonhoeffer, it pulls you in to the story of this new band of heroes, who are ready to stand up against tyranny and injustice.
Barratt has a knack for applying documented history to develop her stories and setting, while capturing the reader’s heart with characters who choose to sacrifice safety in exchange for courage. “The White Rose Resists,” is a testament to those who watched evil continue creeping closer to their communities until they could be silent no more. Instead of leaving it to the adults, these young people called the darkness into the light and devoted themselves to fighting the good fight.
Be prepared–this is an emotional read. If you ‘enjoy WWII stories of triumph in a time of great loss, this book is for you. This would be an excellent book to use for a book club or discussion group.
I was an early reader, thanks to Kregel Publications. All opinions are my own.
“The day of reckoning has come, the reckoning of the German youth again the most heinous tyranny our nation ever had to suffer. In the name of all German youth, we demand of Adolf Hitler’s state the return of personal freedom, the most precious good of the German people, of which he has cheated us in the most wretched manner.”
A manifesto of sorts; defining the demands of “The White Rose”, a student resistance movement, who against all odds, fought a regime of terror with the only means they had available; their words. Did they accomplish their purpose? Perhaps the fact that we are still honoring them with our words is a fitting tribute to their legacy.
Amanda Barratt has written these brave young men and women back to life within the pages of her book; carefully peeling back the layers of their humanity, their conscience, their determination, their sanctity of life, and ultimately their ineffable courage in the face of dire consequences. And even then . . .
“I don’t regret my conduct. I believe I have done the best I could for my country and my conscience. I’m ready to stand before God only with the regret that I didn’t do more.”
What an outstanding example of historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
There are some books that come along that simply require reflection and muse, that take your breath away while reading, and that leave a mark on your mind and heart that a lesson is meant to be heard. I got all of that and more from this amazing book.
The character development is so incredibly well done, and you really feel as if you know them as your neighbors. These young students are amazing…risking all to tell the truth no one else will tell. It provokes the reader to think about what one would do and what one would be willing to risk in telling the truth. For me,the start and development of the story was a bit slow in the beginning. My mind that is affected by neuro disorder had a bit of a difficult time following the different people in short time spans. As the book progresses,the reader spends more time with each character…this actually helps the book really build into the fantastic read that it is. It is pure genius once you realize how well the story is told…and how it has to be told.
The fact that so much real detail and facts are in this book makes it powerful,the way the author writes and weaves those facts into this book makes a spectacular, heart wrenching story!
There is an obvious faith and truth theme through the book…and the eternal fight of good versus evil. A book truly written for the times in which we live.
The first book by this author set the bar very high for this one, but that was not a problem. Once again,she exceeded my expectations. I really do not feel any review is quite going to do this book justice, but I am thrilled I read it. It will not soon be forgotten…and much to ponder and absorb.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This is a fantastic read about German Students who stood up against injustice. Amanda Barratt weaves this true story with a lyrical style and delicacy unexpected for the subject matter as she weaves fact with fiction.
This has to be one of the most powerful reads that I’ve read in awhile. There is a lot that will tug at your heartstrings a bit while your cheering on the resisters and everything they are trying to accomplish. Bravery and courage in the face of horrific evil. Dramatic yet a powerfully emotional read. This is one everyone should read at least once.
There are some books that move you and challenge you, leaving an indelible impression. The White Rose Resists is one of them.
I’d never heard of the White Rose Resistance until this book. After reading it, I will not forget about these young people who dared to stand up for their beliefs in the midst of tyranny.
With a fictional story steeped in research and historical facts, Amanda Barratt pulls readers into the horrors of World War II Germany, the sacrifice made by a handful of young people to take a stand and now waver no matter the cost, and the thread of hope that one day, the war would end.
The White Rose Resists is an emotional story of courage and honor of love and sacrifice. It is a story I will not soon forget. And it a story everyone should read.
“Someday perhaps my story will be told, and others will remember. That to witness wrong and stay silent is as much a crime as committing evil oneself.”
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.