Book Review: The Vienna Writers Circle by J.C. Maetis

Rating: 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I was lucky to have received a proof copy of J. C. Maetis new novel The Vienna Writers Circle from the lovely team at Penguin. I remember reading the synopsis before picking up this book and feeling totally in awe by the storytelling that I was about to embark on. It was clear that this would be a very different read for me as a lot of the historical fiction I have read before has usually been set during the regency period. Despite this, I was captivated within the first few chapters! The story was both powerful and compelling. Maetis takes you on a journey of what life was like for the Jewish and Romani-Gypsy community during World War Two. Though at times heartbreaking, it is such an insightful read that explores themes of love, loyalty and, most importantly, courage. It is the perfect read for fans of Heather Morris' The Tattooist of Auschwitz and Three Sisters.

About The Book:

Set in Spring 1938, The Vienna Writers Circle meets at Cafe Mozart to share hopeful stories during a particularly hopeless time. We follow the stories of Mathias and Johannes (both fellow writers, cousins and practically brothers) as they thrive within this creative group of individuals. But, when the Nazis take over Austria, everything begins to change. As their families' lives start to come under threat, Mathias and Johannes choose to hide in plain sight by creating false identities. The only thing getting them through this difficult time is the safety of their loved ones and the salvation of their writing.

Inspector Josef Weber also walks a dangerous line as he helps 'hidden Jews' avoid deportation to the concentration camps. But, like so many of the other characters, Weber faces a conflict of his own as he has declared his love for the beautiful Romani-Gypsy girl, Deya Reynes. Fearful that she too will be sent to her death. When all they have left is courage, will they survive?

A harrowing piece of historical fiction set during World War Two, that not only paints a gripping picture of Vienna and its culture, but also teaches us of the impact of the Anschluss on those seen as 'undesirable' to the Nazis.