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3.88 AVERAGE
3.88 AVERAGE
Cradles of the Reich follows three women connected to the Lebensborn Society, a Nazi program to increase the birth rate of Aryans in Germany. It felt a bit researched vs emotional, but I found the book was easy to follow and interesting. If the topic is intriguing to you, it's worth picking up.
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
emotional
informative
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Content Warnings
Graphic: Antisemitism
adventurous
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Too many characters to follow
dark
informative
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
challenging
dark
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
"Cradles of the Reich" offers a glimpse into a chilling aspect of World War Two history: the Nazi breeding program aimed at creating a racially pure society. Jennifer Coburn's meticulous research shines through in the detailed historical setting, shedding light on the horrifying reality of Lebensborn homes.
The novel is narrated from three different perspectives: two expectant mothers in the program, one pro-Nazi and the other secretly part of the German resistance, and a nurse involved in the program. However, these perspectives feel somewhat one-dimensional and lack depth, particularly in character development. Gundi, the anti-Nazi expectant mother, takes center stage for much of the story, making the other perspectives feel unnecessary. Focusing solely on Gundi's narrative could have made the novel more focused and impactful.
While the historical aspects of the novel are well-researched and satisfying, the story itself feels somewhat flat and lacks emotional depth. Despite its shortcomings, "Cradles of the Reich" serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the war and the importance of reproductive rights.
The novel is narrated from three different perspectives: two expectant mothers in the program, one pro-Nazi and the other secretly part of the German resistance, and a nurse involved in the program. However, these perspectives feel somewhat one-dimensional and lack depth, particularly in character development. Gundi, the anti-Nazi expectant mother, takes center stage for much of the story, making the other perspectives feel unnecessary. Focusing solely on Gundi's narrative could have made the novel more focused and impactful.
While the historical aspects of the novel are well-researched and satisfying, the story itself feels somewhat flat and lacks emotional depth. Despite its shortcomings, "Cradles of the Reich" serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the war and the importance of reproductive rights.
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is such an unusual story that I hadn’t heard a lot about. As a unique historical fiction read, it delves into the real-life history of the German Lebensborn Society program during WWII, a Nazi sanctioned breeding program to propagate an Aryan race. This tells the tale of 3 women and how their lives intersect at Heim Hochland. Was a fascinating read! I would have liked to have a bit more closure at the end to learn more about what happens to the characters, but overall, would definitely recommend! Thanks to the author, publisher, & NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ebook.