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That Summer in Berlin
In the summer of 1936, while the Nazis make secret plans for World War II, a courageous and daring young woman struggles to expose the lies behind the dazzling spectacle of the Berlin Olympics.
German power is rising again, threatening a war that will be even worse than the last one. The English aristocracy turns to an age-old institution to stave off war and strengthen political bonds—marriage. Debutantes flock to Germany, including Viviane Alden. On holiday with her sister during the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Viviane’s true purpose is more clandestine. While many in England want to appease Hitler, others seek to prove Germany is rearming. But they need evidence, photographs to tell the tale, and Viviane is a genius with her trusty Leica. And who would suspect a pretty, young tourist taking holiday snaps of being a spy?
Viviane expects to find hatred and injustice, but during the Olympics, with the world watching, Germany is on its best behavior, graciously welcoming tourists to a festival of peace and goodwill. But first impressions can be deceiving, and it’s up to Viviane and the journalist she’s paired with—a daring man with a guarded heart—to reveal the truth.
But others have their own reasons for befriending Viviane, and her adventure takes a darker turn. Suddenly Viviane finds herself caught in a web of far more deadly games—and closer than she ever imagined to the brink of war.
German power is rising again, threatening a war that will be even worse than the last one. The English aristocracy turns to an age-old institution to stave off war and strengthen political bonds—marriage. Debutantes flock to Germany, including Viviane Alden. On holiday with her sister during the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Viviane’s true purpose is more clandestine. While many in England want to appease Hitler, others seek to prove Germany is rearming. But they need evidence, photographs to tell the tale, and Viviane is a genius with her trusty Leica. And who would suspect a pretty, young tourist taking holiday snaps of being a spy?
Viviane expects to find hatred and injustice, but during the Olympics, with the world watching, Germany is on its best behavior, graciously welcoming tourists to a festival of peace and goodwill. But first impressions can be deceiving, and it’s up to Viviane and the journalist she’s paired with—a daring man with a guarded heart—to reveal the truth.
But others have their own reasons for befriending Viviane, and her adventure takes a darker turn. Suddenly Viviane finds herself caught in a web of far more deadly games—and closer than she ever imagined to the brink of war.
464 pages, Paperback
First published October 11, 2022
About the author
Lecia Cornwall
22 books479 followersLecia Cornwall writes historical romance and historical fiction. She lives and writes in Alberta, Canada, amid the beautiful foothills of the Canadian Rockies, with five cats, two adult children, a crazy chocolate Lab, and one very patient husband. She is hard at work on her next book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
October 3, 2023
Danger, intrigue, the Olympics, and a possible romance take center stage in Lecia Cornwall’s historical fiction novel
That Summer in Berlin
. Taking place mainly between the fall of 1935 and the summer of 1936, with an epilogue in 1940, this novel focuses on a time when German power was rising. England was divided on whether this was a good thing where the economy is recovering or if it means there’s a threat of war. The English aristocracy believes the best way to strengthen political bonds is through marriage. Debutantes go to Germany with the hopes of making a match. This includes Viviane Alden and her half-sister Julia Devellin. Additionally, the English government sends in spies to seek out the truth, believing that Germany is rearming and preparing for another war.
But during the Olympics in 1936, Germany is on its best behavior, at least on the surface. The English need photographic proof of what is going on behind the scenes. Who would expect a young tourist taking holiday pictures of being a spy? It’s up to Viviane and a journalist she’s paired with to discover and reveal the truth.
Viviane wants to do good and believes in fighting for what’s right. She’s also a strong swimmer, avid amateur photographer, clever, and likes the challenge of having a secret life. Tom Graham, a trained engineer turned reporter wants to right wrongs. He’s well educated, discreet, and smart. However, he can also come across as arrogant and has an odd sense of humor that can make others uncomfortable. The characters, including secondary characters, felt authentic and emotionally rich. The older sons of Julia’s German godfather were particularly well-depicted.
This historical fiction and spy novel is well written. The plot is twisty and the story kept me captivated despite a few slow spots. The historical references to events during the Olympics added a significant layer of interest and realism to the plot. The mix of real people and fictional characters was well-done. Occasionally, I needed to look up a character to see if they were real or not. The author has done a great job of capturing the divided sentiments both within England and within Germany. The world-building was well-done.
Overall, this was an entertaining but disturbing story. We know what happened soon after the end of this novel. Other themes included in the novel were relationships, trust, honesty, deception, power, greed, love, family, lies, suspicion, pride, innocence, and hatred without reason.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was October 11, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4 star review will be coming soon.
But during the Olympics in 1936, Germany is on its best behavior, at least on the surface. The English need photographic proof of what is going on behind the scenes. Who would expect a young tourist taking holiday pictures of being a spy? It’s up to Viviane and a journalist she’s paired with to discover and reveal the truth.
Viviane wants to do good and believes in fighting for what’s right. She’s also a strong swimmer, avid amateur photographer, clever, and likes the challenge of having a secret life. Tom Graham, a trained engineer turned reporter wants to right wrongs. He’s well educated, discreet, and smart. However, he can also come across as arrogant and has an odd sense of humor that can make others uncomfortable. The characters, including secondary characters, felt authentic and emotionally rich. The older sons of Julia’s German godfather were particularly well-depicted.
This historical fiction and spy novel is well written. The plot is twisty and the story kept me captivated despite a few slow spots. The historical references to events during the Olympics added a significant layer of interest and realism to the plot. The mix of real people and fictional characters was well-done. Occasionally, I needed to look up a character to see if they were real or not. The author has done a great job of capturing the divided sentiments both within England and within Germany. The world-building was well-done.
Overall, this was an entertaining but disturbing story. We know what happened soon after the end of this novel. Other themes included in the novel were relationships, trust, honesty, deception, power, greed, love, family, lies, suspicion, pride, innocence, and hatred without reason.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was October 11, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4 star review will be coming soon.
October 13, 2022
I like historical fiction, but I have to admit sometimes I feel like certain points of history are overdone and can burn me out. I will admit that the rise of Nazis and World War II is one of those time periods, and while that is the setting for this book I found this story to be fresh and kept my interest very well. I loved the characters and seeing the locations and time period through their eyes. Viviane is English and of marriageable age, but she isn’t engaged and would rather work by being photographer than marry much to her mother’s disappointment. While she takes portraits she likes to take more important photos around current events even more. Tom is a journalist who has been assigned to go to Berlin for the Olympics. He’s instructed to gain German trust and to find out what they don’t want their foreign guests to know. Altogether a great adventure full of strong characters and just a dash of romance..
August 16, 2022
THAT SUMMER IN BERLIN is an enthralling and terrifying journey through pre-WWII Germany, where staggering beauty and congeniality are meant to distract Olympic tourists from the machines of war, growing in the shadows. Readers will adore the plucky, courageous heroine who sees beyond the façade and risks everything for the truth. Prepare to lose sleep.
October 4, 2022
Four and a Half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
That Summer in Berlin by Lecia Cornwall is a historical novel set just before World War II's outbreak and set in Britain and Germany.
Story Recap:
In order to escape a marriage to an unsuitable man, debutante Viviane Alden decides to accompany her sister to Germany to visit their aristocratic cousins. The time is 1936, and the women are promised they will be able to go to the 1936 Olympics in Berlin.
Vivianne isn’t the typical debutante; she has a talent for photography and isn’t just visiting Germany as a holiday. She has a covert mission to try and photograph Germany’s build-up to the war in order to help convince British leaders that Hitler is a real threat. When Vivienne’s fundamental mission is revealed, she finds herself in a life-threatening situation and she’s not sure she’ll ever be able to return to England.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book very much. I liked that it showed the build-up towards war and not the actual war itself. Vivianne was one of the few in her family that could see the Nazis for what they were. She used her camera to show her country what was really going on behind all the glamour and beauty of the Olympic Games. Her “holiday photos” were actually photos to expose the build-up of arms in Germany. Vivienne is such a courageous and intelligent heroine in this story, she didn’t want to marry for money and live a life of aristocracy in England, instead, she chose to work for her country and spy on the Germans.
I never realized that the British Aristocracy sent young women to Germany to try and heal relations with Germany before the war started. At that time, it wasn’t known how horrible the situation was in Germany, and that’s why Vivienne’s photos were so important.
Sometimes it’s difficult for me to get into a historical novel right away, but that is not the case with That Summer in Berlin. I was immediately swept away and the exciting pace continued throughout the book.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend That Summer in Berlin to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
That Summer in Berlin by Lecia Cornwall is a historical novel set just before World War II's outbreak and set in Britain and Germany.
Story Recap:
In order to escape a marriage to an unsuitable man, debutante Viviane Alden decides to accompany her sister to Germany to visit their aristocratic cousins. The time is 1936, and the women are promised they will be able to go to the 1936 Olympics in Berlin.
Vivianne isn’t the typical debutante; she has a talent for photography and isn’t just visiting Germany as a holiday. She has a covert mission to try and photograph Germany’s build-up to the war in order to help convince British leaders that Hitler is a real threat. When Vivienne’s fundamental mission is revealed, she finds herself in a life-threatening situation and she’s not sure she’ll ever be able to return to England.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book very much. I liked that it showed the build-up towards war and not the actual war itself. Vivianne was one of the few in her family that could see the Nazis for what they were. She used her camera to show her country what was really going on behind all the glamour and beauty of the Olympic Games. Her “holiday photos” were actually photos to expose the build-up of arms in Germany. Vivienne is such a courageous and intelligent heroine in this story, she didn’t want to marry for money and live a life of aristocracy in England, instead, she chose to work for her country and spy on the Germans.
I never realized that the British Aristocracy sent young women to Germany to try and heal relations with Germany before the war started. At that time, it wasn’t known how horrible the situation was in Germany, and that’s why Vivienne’s photos were so important.
Sometimes it’s difficult for me to get into a historical novel right away, but that is not the case with That Summer in Berlin. I was immediately swept away and the exciting pace continued throughout the book.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend That Summer in Berlin to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 9, 2022
It is Berlin 1936, and the Summer Olympics will soon be underway. Meanwhile, war is on the horizon and the Nazis have a lot of plans. Viviane Alden is on holiday with her sister during the planned Summer Olympic games but she actually has a bigger reason for being there. Viviane is gifted with her Leica camera, and the pictures she is taking are actually suiting her purposes of being a spy, a spy no one suspects. Viviane is often paired with a journalist, Tom Graham, and the two take risk after risk.
Viviane and her camera skills were in high demand, which gave her an edge with regard to what her real purpose was, even with all the danger that followed her everywhere. This incredibly intense book had a high level of intrigue while a romance was slowly brewing. However, both Viviane and Tom had to be on their toes at all times, because betrayal was in their midst as well.
No matter how many historical fiction books I read, I always seem to find something different. Lecia Cornwall did that with this book, That Summer in Berlin. It was quite interesting to see how the war efforts and the nefarious activities of the Germans was pushing forward all while pretending things were fine while the ceremonies and games of the Olympics was going on. Quite the contrast, and the author did a fabulous job at presenting both sides, but especially the activities of Viviane and Tom and all of the dangers they faced.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review as well - https://youtu.be/f3R1J03bg9w
Viviane and her camera skills were in high demand, which gave her an edge with regard to what her real purpose was, even with all the danger that followed her everywhere. This incredibly intense book had a high level of intrigue while a romance was slowly brewing. However, both Viviane and Tom had to be on their toes at all times, because betrayal was in their midst as well.
No matter how many historical fiction books I read, I always seem to find something different. Lecia Cornwall did that with this book, That Summer in Berlin. It was quite interesting to see how the war efforts and the nefarious activities of the Germans was pushing forward all while pretending things were fine while the ceremonies and games of the Olympics was going on. Quite the contrast, and the author did a fabulous job at presenting both sides, but especially the activities of Viviane and Tom and all of the dangers they faced.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review as well - https://youtu.be/f3R1J03bg9w
August 1, 2023
The Summer in Berlin by Lecia Cornwall. It is 1936. WW2 has not started but the Nazis are forming power. Hitler is on the lips of Germans. The Olympics are in Berlin. Viviane goes to Germany with her sister. Viviane’s mom wants her to find a husband. Viviane wants to be a photographer. An unseemly job for a woman. Viviane finds much more than she bargained for.
I found this novel to be slow and a bit difficult to follow at times. It jumped back and forth between Germany and England a lot .
I found this novel to be slow and a bit difficult to follow at times. It jumped back and forth between Germany and England a lot .
October 12, 2022
I adored author Lecia Cornwall's WWI histfic masterpiece, The Woman at the Front, and wondered if she could wow me again. Indeed, she has! THAT SUMMER IN BERLIN is equally elegant and gripping, with a story about British spy/photog, Viviane Alden, who travels to the 1936 Berlin Olympics to capture on film the truth of German rearmament. What happens next will thrill you to the last page. Lecia is an absolute go-to author for me now, as she should be for anyone who loves historical fiction. Highly recommended!
October 11, 2022
4.5 rounded up.
This was such a great look at pre-WWII Berlin during the 1936 Olympic games as one American woman is tasked with taking photos and reporting on the state of the country as the Nazis are rising in influence.
If you enjoy historical fiction this book is well researched and utterly compelling with the perfect balance of historical facts and romance. Great on audio too narrated by Hannah Curtis and recommended for fans of Fast girls by Elise Hooper.
Much thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC and Berkley for a physical #finished copy. Highly, highly recommended! I was part of the @uplitreads marketing campaign for this book and enjoyed it so much!
This was such a great look at pre-WWII Berlin during the 1936 Olympic games as one American woman is tasked with taking photos and reporting on the state of the country as the Nazis are rising in influence.
If you enjoy historical fiction this book is well researched and utterly compelling with the perfect balance of historical facts and romance. Great on audio too narrated by Hannah Curtis and recommended for fans of Fast girls by Elise Hooper.
Much thanks to @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC and Berkley for a physical #finished copy. Highly, highly recommended! I was part of the @uplitreads marketing campaign for this book and enjoyed it so much!
August 12, 2023
I have read many books about WWII, Germany, Hitler, the Nazi rise to power etc. But this book is unique in the sense of its setting. Set mostly in Berlin, German at the 1936 Summer Olympics. A woman spy taking her job very seriously poses as a Brith tourist photographer, catching what others aren't seeing right in plain sight. Once again, we see the blind obedience Germans had to Hitler and his teachings even seeing the obedience German female youths had a girl's wing of the Nazi party youth movement called League of German Girls.
Well-paced story with realistic characters. Fascinating historical fiction.
Pub Date: 11 Oct 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Well-paced story with realistic characters. Fascinating historical fiction.
Pub Date: 11 Oct 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 8, 2022
Adventure, romance, danger, and intrigue – That Summer in Berlin is the story of one woman’s courageous use of her talents in photography to peel back the glamorous veneer of pre-war Germany and expose the atrocities of the Nazi regime. Set during the Olympics of 1936 in Berlin, Lecia Cornwall’s research shows itself perfectly in this gripping tale.
February 12, 2022
As the world tiptoes closer to war, an intrepid photographer travels to Germany to expose the dark underbelly of Hitler's picture-perfect 1936 Olympics. THAT SUMMER IN BERLIN is a flawless composition of historical detail, adventure story, and intrigue, with a dash of romance thrown in for good measure!
November 6, 2022
Like many historical fiction readers, I've read a lot of WW II stories. But I ended up enjoying this story way more than I expected. I loved having a different setting for the War and the Olympics was a nice way to set the stage. As a Buckeye, I wanted to hear more about Jessee Owens and his magnificent track performance. But that really wasn't the point of the story.
Rather, Viviane a female photographer with rare inclinations to work and tell others' stories, visits Berlin with her stepsister as a tourist visiting a family friend. Viviane’s true purpose is more clandestine. She's been recruited to help uncover the true nature of Nazi Germany with her photos. The portrayal of Germany and German citizens and their blind allegiance to Hitler was both fascinating and terrifying.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters and trying to figure out who I could trust. I liked Viviane's romance with Tom, a British reporter also working undercover.
Thank you, Berkley Publishing, Penguin Random House Audio for the audiobook version, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy of That Summer in Berlin. A definite winner!
Rather, Viviane a female photographer with rare inclinations to work and tell others' stories, visits Berlin with her stepsister as a tourist visiting a family friend. Viviane’s true purpose is more clandestine. She's been recruited to help uncover the true nature of Nazi Germany with her photos. The portrayal of Germany and German citizens and their blind allegiance to Hitler was both fascinating and terrifying.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters and trying to figure out who I could trust. I liked Viviane's romance with Tom, a British reporter also working undercover.
Thank you, Berkley Publishing, Penguin Random House Audio for the audiobook version, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy of That Summer in Berlin. A definite winner!
November 10, 2022
The Summer in Berlin is an amazing World War II historical fiction book. I loved the uniqueness of blending in the Olympics at the start of the war. Showing how things seemed to be moving along status quo where awful plans were brewing behind the scenes.
I thought it was quite brilliant.
Viviane was an amazing character and Lecia Cornwall is an impressive author.
This is a MUST READ for HF lovers
I thought it was quite brilliant.
Viviane was an amazing character and Lecia Cornwall is an impressive author.
This is a MUST READ for HF lovers
October 24, 2022
Compelling, vivid, and absorbing!
That Summer in Berlin is a captivating tale predominately set in Berlin in 1936 that takes you into the lives of two main characters; Viviane Alden, a young woman who turns down the marriage to a duke in order to pursue her passion for photography, and Tom Graham, an undercover journalist and illegitimate son of a Scottish Earl who under the guise of reporting on the Summer Olympics, recruits his friend and fellow British acquaintance to help him secretly spy and discover if Germany is slyly preparing to start another world war.
The prose is rich and expressive. The characters are independent, spirited, and brave. And the plot is an evocative tale of life, loss, love, self-discovery, war, secrets, friendship, determination, betrayal, family, espionage, and romance.
Overall, That Summer in Berlin is an intriguing, absorbing, atmospheric tale by Cornwall that does a lovely job of blending historical events, intense emotion, and thought-provoking suspense.
Thank you to Uplit Reads for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
That Summer in Berlin is a captivating tale predominately set in Berlin in 1936 that takes you into the lives of two main characters; Viviane Alden, a young woman who turns down the marriage to a duke in order to pursue her passion for photography, and Tom Graham, an undercover journalist and illegitimate son of a Scottish Earl who under the guise of reporting on the Summer Olympics, recruits his friend and fellow British acquaintance to help him secretly spy and discover if Germany is slyly preparing to start another world war.
The prose is rich and expressive. The characters are independent, spirited, and brave. And the plot is an evocative tale of life, loss, love, self-discovery, war, secrets, friendship, determination, betrayal, family, espionage, and romance.
Overall, That Summer in Berlin is an intriguing, absorbing, atmospheric tale by Cornwall that does a lovely job of blending historical events, intense emotion, and thought-provoking suspense.
Thank you to Uplit Reads for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2022
Viviane Alden, an English debutant and amateur photojournalist-turned spy, struggles to expose the ugliness of Nazism behind the shining façade Germany presents to the world during the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Filled with intrigue, danger and love, THAT SUMMER IN BERLIN is a vivid depiction of the stunning beauty of Germany and the contrasting horror of Hitler’s regime. Gripping historical fiction you can’t put down!
October 17, 2022
I always enjoy historical fiction, so of course I enjoyed this one. I have read many books about WWII but this one stood out as different as it takes place in between the wars as the Germans are prepping for war.
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On the surface Viviane is on Holiday during the Berlin Olympics but in reality proof is needed that the Germans are once again getting ready for war. Who would suspect a young pretty girl as a spy? Vivane is playing a very dangerous games as she watched the world take each other on during the Olympic Games.
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Huge thank you to @berkleypub @berittalksbooks @thephdivabooks @dg_reads and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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On the surface Viviane is on Holiday during the Berlin Olympics but in reality proof is needed that the Germans are once again getting ready for war. Who would suspect a young pretty girl as a spy? Vivane is playing a very dangerous games as she watched the world take each other on during the Olympic Games.
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Huge thank you to @berkleypub @berittalksbooks @thephdivabooks @dg_reads and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2022
In WWII Great Britain rallied to such glory that we rarely consider how close they came to imitating the rest of Europe at that time. The cozy friendship between Nazi Germany and a deplorably significant percent of the British aristocracy is central to THAT SUMMER IN BERLIN.
Eager to be fooled into maintaining a desirable status quo, all but one of the wealthy Brits in this historical novel bend over backwards to rationalize the Nazi threat.
Through the perspective of her camera lens, Viviane Alden is the outlier who sees right through them.
Inexperienced, sheltered and determined, Viviane knows the risks of spying on the Nazis in plain sight. But given the chance to chaperone her stepsister on holiday at the 1936 Olympics, the rogue shutterbug in Viviane seizes a perilous opportunity.
With the help of Tom Graham, a thoughtful reporter-cum-spy and her partner in a relentless sexual tension, Viviane sets out to pierce the jolly veil erected by Hitler that summer.
Under the protective disguise of reality, Alden uses her privileged perch to capture photos of the psychotic war fever burning beneath the Olympic rings.
The festivities are intoxicating and her boy-crazy stepsister’s innocence is maddening yet oddly adorable. Thoroughly researched and fraught with suspense, THAT SUMMER is a simmering look at a neurotic snake pit.
Viviane finds herself scrutinized by her German hosts: old family friends beset by their own internal political divides.
Hiding in plain sight from omnipresent dangers, she’s no lock to survive a society subsumed by subterfuge. Her summer in Berlin will be a photo finish.
Eager to be fooled into maintaining a desirable status quo, all but one of the wealthy Brits in this historical novel bend over backwards to rationalize the Nazi threat.
Through the perspective of her camera lens, Viviane Alden is the outlier who sees right through them.
Inexperienced, sheltered and determined, Viviane knows the risks of spying on the Nazis in plain sight. But given the chance to chaperone her stepsister on holiday at the 1936 Olympics, the rogue shutterbug in Viviane seizes a perilous opportunity.
With the help of Tom Graham, a thoughtful reporter-cum-spy and her partner in a relentless sexual tension, Viviane sets out to pierce the jolly veil erected by Hitler that summer.
Under the protective disguise of reality, Alden uses her privileged perch to capture photos of the psychotic war fever burning beneath the Olympic rings.
The festivities are intoxicating and her boy-crazy stepsister’s innocence is maddening yet oddly adorable. Thoroughly researched and fraught with suspense, THAT SUMMER is a simmering look at a neurotic snake pit.
Viviane finds herself scrutinized by her German hosts: old family friends beset by their own internal political divides.
Hiding in plain sight from omnipresent dangers, she’s no lock to survive a society subsumed by subterfuge. Her summer in Berlin will be a photo finish.
October 13, 2022
There are many books about WW2, and some are very similar, but That Summer in Berlin by Lecia Cornwell offers a new kind of story that I haven't read before. The story takes place in 1936 Berlin, during the Olympic Games. Hitler and his government want to convince the world that Germany is tolerant and benign, so they roll out the red carpet for international athletes and tourists, removing all antisemitic signs and other sinister sights from view. The locals are presenting an idyllic picture for their guests, but for visitors who dare to look closely behind the gleaming facade, there are clues that the country is preparing for war.
A young English aristocratic woman Viviane Alden, an avid photographer, is one of the tourists traveling with her sister to Germany for the Olympic Games. But she has an undercover mission to look for and photograph any proof of Germany's war preparations. Viviane is pared with a dashing Scottish journalist, Tom Graham, who is on his own dangerous mission in Berlin.
That Summer in Berlin is a dazzling combination of fascinating history, adventure, intrigue, and romance. I was engrossed in the story from the first page. I haven't enjoyed many WW2 books lately, but I loved this one. It's one of the best historical fiction novels I've read this year. I highly recommend it!
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
A young English aristocratic woman Viviane Alden, an avid photographer, is one of the tourists traveling with her sister to Germany for the Olympic Games. But she has an undercover mission to look for and photograph any proof of Germany's war preparations. Viviane is pared with a dashing Scottish journalist, Tom Graham, who is on his own dangerous mission in Berlin.
That Summer in Berlin is a dazzling combination of fascinating history, adventure, intrigue, and romance. I was engrossed in the story from the first page. I haven't enjoyed many WW2 books lately, but I loved this one. It's one of the best historical fiction novels I've read this year. I highly recommend it!
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
October 14, 2022
Lecia Cornwall brilliantly captures the unsettling paranoia and blind idolatry that characterized Hitler’s Germany. Set against the glittering spectacle of the 1936 Summer Games, her latest novel tightens the tension page by delicious page while giving us a heroine who exemplified the everyday courage of those who dared to expose the truth.
October 27, 2022
4.5 Stars
That Summer in Berlin is a page-turning story of photography, bravery, and espionage in pre-WW11 Germany.
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkelyWritesStrongWomen #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary e ARC of #ThatSummerInBerlin upon my request. All opinions are my own.
In 1936, Viviane accompanies her sister on a trip to Berlin around the time of the Olympics. An aspiring photographer, Viviane is persuaded to work as a spy while posing as a tourist to capture “behind the scenes” photographs to provide evidence that Germany is rearming for another war. This is a challenging assignment as Germany is on its best behavior as the world watches the Olympics. Nazi influence and intimidation prevail and Viviane wonders who she can trust.
In the style of Kate Quinn, the author of That Summer in Berlin serves readers a compelling side of thriller and intrigue. I read very little in the thriller genre, but I can appreciate a mashup! As Viviane comes under suspicion, her life is in danger and she (and readers alike) wonder whom she can trust.
The straightforward story structure told from one perspective lends itself to a fast reading pace. Although I enjoy a challenging read, I appreciate an occasional refreshing break from dual timelines, flashbacks, and multiple perspectives. A nice balance between plot-driven and character-driven contributes to the story’s fast pace.
Will I ever tire of WW11 stories? Probably not as long as authors continue telling stories from a fresh perspective. It’s interesting to learn about those individuals prior to WW11 who had concerns about another war. Sending an undercover spy posing as a tourist during the Olympics is an angle I had not previously considered. I love stories of ordinary people asked to do something extraordinary during challenging times. An undercover tourist/photographer is something I can connect with and I always think Would I have attempted something so brave?
Readers who enjoy a hisfic/thriller mashup, a page-turning story set in pre-WW11 Germany, and an inspiring, likable main character might enjoy That Summer in Berlin. And, yes, there is a small side of romance that doesn’t interfere with the focus of the story. Book clubs will find a variety of discussion possibilities.
For more reviews visit my blog www.Readingladies.com where this review was first published.
That Summer in Berlin is a page-turning story of photography, bravery, and espionage in pre-WW11 Germany.
Thanks #NetGalley @BerkleyPub #BerkelyWritesStrongWomen #BerkleyBuddyReads for a complimentary e ARC of #ThatSummerInBerlin upon my request. All opinions are my own.
In 1936, Viviane accompanies her sister on a trip to Berlin around the time of the Olympics. An aspiring photographer, Viviane is persuaded to work as a spy while posing as a tourist to capture “behind the scenes” photographs to provide evidence that Germany is rearming for another war. This is a challenging assignment as Germany is on its best behavior as the world watches the Olympics. Nazi influence and intimidation prevail and Viviane wonders who she can trust.
In the style of Kate Quinn, the author of That Summer in Berlin serves readers a compelling side of thriller and intrigue. I read very little in the thriller genre, but I can appreciate a mashup! As Viviane comes under suspicion, her life is in danger and she (and readers alike) wonder whom she can trust.
The straightforward story structure told from one perspective lends itself to a fast reading pace. Although I enjoy a challenging read, I appreciate an occasional refreshing break from dual timelines, flashbacks, and multiple perspectives. A nice balance between plot-driven and character-driven contributes to the story’s fast pace.
Will I ever tire of WW11 stories? Probably not as long as authors continue telling stories from a fresh perspective. It’s interesting to learn about those individuals prior to WW11 who had concerns about another war. Sending an undercover spy posing as a tourist during the Olympics is an angle I had not previously considered. I love stories of ordinary people asked to do something extraordinary during challenging times. An undercover tourist/photographer is something I can connect with and I always think Would I have attempted something so brave?
Readers who enjoy a hisfic/thriller mashup, a page-turning story set in pre-WW11 Germany, and an inspiring, likable main character might enjoy That Summer in Berlin. And, yes, there is a small side of romance that doesn’t interfere with the focus of the story. Book clubs will find a variety of discussion possibilities.
For more reviews visit my blog www.Readingladies.com where this review was first published.
May 17, 2023
Overall a very good read! The author knew how to keep you drawn in and build up intensity and suspense as the story progressed. Also loved learned little more history pre world war 2! Also seeing how Hitler’s influence not only tore the nation apart but families as well. His lies influenced so many women and it was the women who became the driving force of raising perfect Aryan children, preparing them to serve in Hitler’s Nazi army. Really quite chilling!
There were a few scenes at the end that didn’t quite make sense to me. Why the professor knew of Felix’s bad intentions but didn’t bother warning Viviane about it and put her in danger on the train?
Also a dramatic scene jumping off the train trying to reach the Dutch boarder. I mean they were literally yards away from the boarder where the train was pulling into, but they felt they had to jump off the train instead?Otto appeared to be calm and understanding of the situation that just took place, I didn’t feel he was a threat at that moment cause he ends up helping them out anyways. Plus where did these extra Germans come from after jumping off the train?
There were a few scenes at the end that didn’t quite make sense to me. Why the professor knew of Felix’s bad intentions but didn’t bother warning Viviane about it and put her in danger on the train?
Also a dramatic scene jumping off the train trying to reach the Dutch boarder. I mean they were literally yards away from the boarder where the train was pulling into, but they felt they had to jump off the train instead?Otto appeared to be calm and understanding of the situation that just took place, I didn’t feel he was a threat at that moment cause he ends up helping them out anyways. Plus where did these extra Germans come from after jumping off the train?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2023
Mainly about two British debutantes who went to Germany in 1936 to stay with a Count who was an old friend of the family. The author has managed to fit in several other interesting bits of European history, from the first use of poisonous gas in WW1 to the rescue of the British soldiers from Dunkirk in 1940. Vivianne, our heroine, wanted to become a famous photographer like Dorothea Lange. In addition to the mountain scenery and the pageantry of Hitler's Olympic Games, she took pictures of the brainwashed Hitler Youth, the build-up of factories, and even a concentration camp. Her step-sister Julia fell in love with the Count's eldest son, a Nazi SS agent. Another English friend of the family is a journalist in Berlin, trying to write articles that will appease the Nazis who are keeping a close eye on him, but also trying to let the world know what was really going on behind the scenes. A bit hard to tell the good guys from the bad guys in this book, but maybe the point is that none of us are all good.
November 9, 2022
Viviane’s family has ideas for what they think a young woman should be concerned about-mainly marriage but she has other ideas of her own. When an opportunity presents itself to travel, she sets off to pre-war Berlin for the summer Olympics. While there, she learns of Hitler’s plans to occupy Europe and start another war. Viviane is able to assimilate with the other tourists in town for the games but secretly she’s photographing evidence against Hitler and the German Army. This was a fantastic view into the early days of WW2 and the lengths that concerned citizens would go to in order to protect their freedom. 4.5⭐️
February 16, 2024
This captured and held my attention from the start. I love historical fiction, but find that stories around WWII can often feel similar to each other. That Summer In Berlin held many similar themes to other WWII stories (a strong-willed heroine delving into espionage), but feels like a fresh take as it explores events leading up to WWII.
The story follows an upperclass woman who has refused marriage and instead hopes to use her photography to make the world a better place. A handsome, Scottish (+1) journalist convinces her to travel to the Berlin Olympics to help him show the world what is brewing in Germany. Under the guise of chaperoning her stepsister, she travels to Germany to stay with a friend of her stepfather. This German family obviously holds Nazi beliefs and she must tread carefully--especially around the eldest son who is a high ranking member of the secret police.
Even when I wasn't reading, my mind kept wandering back to the charactres and events taking place -- particularly reflecting on what it must have been like in Germany as the Nazi regime put on their facade for the world pre-WWII. This is definitely a story I'll be thinking about long after I place it back on my shelf.
The story follows an upperclass woman who has refused marriage and instead hopes to use her photography to make the world a better place. A handsome, Scottish (+1) journalist convinces her to travel to the Berlin Olympics to help him show the world what is brewing in Germany. Under the guise of chaperoning her stepsister, she travels to Germany to stay with a friend of her stepfather. This German family obviously holds Nazi beliefs and she must tread carefully--especially around the eldest son who is a high ranking member of the secret police.
Even when I wasn't reading, my mind kept wandering back to the charactres and events taking place -- particularly reflecting on what it must have been like in Germany as the Nazi regime put on their facade for the world pre-WWII. This is definitely a story I'll be thinking about long after I place it back on my shelf.
October 25, 2022
Lecia Cornwall is quickly becoming an autobuy author for me! THAT SUMMER IN BERLIN immerses the reader in the rise of fascism in Germany in 1936 but also reveals how often Nazi sympathies were held abroad. With sharply drawn characters, tight plotting and pacing, and a beautiful command of language, this book is an unflinching, eye-opening snapshot of the dangers facing those who would reveal the Third Reich's truth to the world. I read it in a day and highly recommend it!
February 3, 2023
What sets this book apart from the many books written about WWII, Germany and spies, is the setting of it. This book takes place, mostly in Germany, and mostly in Berlin, during the 1936 Summer Olympics, with the beginning of the systematic campaign against the Jewish people and all the undesirables according to the Germans. During the Summer Olympics the Nazis hid from the visitors all signs and hints of their antisemitism, but as it is clearly explained in the book, not because it is hidden doesn't exist,
We have a strong female character in Vivianne, a amazing photographer that has to send her photos anonymously because of her social and gender status, but who only wants to earn her living as such. She is recruited to take pictures of what's hidden in plain sight in Germany using her disguise as a British tourist in Germany accompanying her sister.
We learn, reading the book about the British aristocracy sending their eligible young ladies to find husbands within Germany noble class, even during the years previous to the onset of WWII, and maybe especially because of that, to try to ward off another war by tying the relationships between the two countries.
This is a very well researched book that has it all, adventure, romance, espionage, WWII.
We have a strong female character in Vivianne, a amazing photographer that has to send her photos anonymously because of her social and gender status, but who only wants to earn her living as such. She is recruited to take pictures of what's hidden in plain sight in Germany using her disguise as a British tourist in Germany accompanying her sister.
We learn, reading the book about the British aristocracy sending their eligible young ladies to find husbands within Germany noble class, even during the years previous to the onset of WWII, and maybe especially because of that, to try to ward off another war by tying the relationships between the two countries.
This is a very well researched book that has it all, adventure, romance, espionage, WWII.
March 3, 2023
I truly feel like I just finished a book written by two different people. I really enjoyed the book, the writing, the story and characters up until the last fifty-ish pages. The twist with Felix was so contrived, and I couldn’t make sense how some characters could be in virtually two places at once. It felt rushed and like she was trying to appeal to sophomoric tastes. I expected a love story, too, but again, the ending didn’t seem natural. One huge criticism I have is in how the nasty Nazi Otto was all of a sudden a good guy who would spare her life because he loves her stepsister and is a “decent” man. I don’t get why he was written like this and it feels icky, among other things.
July 4, 2024
That Summer In Berlin has been on my read soon shelf for a year and I listened to it this month. Taking place in 1936, Viviane is a photographer from the UK who is recruited by Tom, a journalist, to take photographs at the Berlin Olympics and elsewhere in order to expose the Nazi preparations for another war. This was an interesting historical story with a bit of suspense and romance as well. The narrator was Hannah Curtis and I appreciated her accents for the characters.
November 3, 2022
That Summer in Berlin is unique and compelling historical fiction novel set in Germany as Hitler begins his rise to power and the world is on the verge of WWII.
📸What appealed to you the most in this story?
I liked the unique aspect of a story taking place during the build-up to WWII and not the drawn-out tragedy of the actual war while seeing it through the eyes of Vivianne, who was part of the British Aristocracy. She embodied courage and determination as she saw those in power and serving Hitler for who they truly were.
Also, I had no idea that the British Aristocracy sent young women to Germany to try and heal relations with Germany and create a “status” for themselves before the war while Hitler was in power. It’s hard to believe as we look back that those traveling to Germany for the Olympics and for a possible marriage had no idea how horribly devastating the situation was in Germany.
📸Is this just “another” WWII historical fiction novel?
No! Cornwall has created a very realistic and unique story as the reader follows the lives of two young English women living with a German family in the late 1930s in Berlin during the Olympics. It is not often that an author is willing to tackle the points of view of aristocratic German women living amongst the SS and the upper echelons of Hitler’s regime.
I know a lot of people avoid this time period in historical fiction books. It is a hard subject to read about, but I promise you that this story is different. At no time did I feel “bogged down” by their lives and situations as I read.
📸How was the pace?
This story held a steady pace which swept me away from the very beginning and at the end it went warp speed and had me holding my breath! Both Kaley and I were hooked on this story and had quite a few theories it and could not wait to see how everything came together in the end. Each chapter was short, and I loved how Cornwall was able to masterfully weave both a male and female point of view together to create a fascinating and unforgettable story.
📸Do you recommend this book?
This is a beautifully written story that goes beyond the surface of everyday life in late 1930s Germany and takes the reader into the lives of the characters in order to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the rising German upper echelons and the behind-the-scenes inner workings of Hitler’s close social circles. Definitely one to grab if you are a fan of historical fiction.
Thank you, Berkley Publishing, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
📸What appealed to you the most in this story?
I liked the unique aspect of a story taking place during the build-up to WWII and not the drawn-out tragedy of the actual war while seeing it through the eyes of Vivianne, who was part of the British Aristocracy. She embodied courage and determination as she saw those in power and serving Hitler for who they truly were.
Also, I had no idea that the British Aristocracy sent young women to Germany to try and heal relations with Germany and create a “status” for themselves before the war while Hitler was in power. It’s hard to believe as we look back that those traveling to Germany for the Olympics and for a possible marriage had no idea how horribly devastating the situation was in Germany.
📸Is this just “another” WWII historical fiction novel?
No! Cornwall has created a very realistic and unique story as the reader follows the lives of two young English women living with a German family in the late 1930s in Berlin during the Olympics. It is not often that an author is willing to tackle the points of view of aristocratic German women living amongst the SS and the upper echelons of Hitler’s regime.
I know a lot of people avoid this time period in historical fiction books. It is a hard subject to read about, but I promise you that this story is different. At no time did I feel “bogged down” by their lives and situations as I read.
📸How was the pace?
This story held a steady pace which swept me away from the very beginning and at the end it went warp speed and had me holding my breath! Both Kaley and I were hooked on this story and had quite a few theories it and could not wait to see how everything came together in the end. Each chapter was short, and I loved how Cornwall was able to masterfully weave both a male and female point of view together to create a fascinating and unforgettable story.
📸Do you recommend this book?
This is a beautifully written story that goes beyond the surface of everyday life in late 1930s Germany and takes the reader into the lives of the characters in order to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the rising German upper echelons and the behind-the-scenes inner workings of Hitler’s close social circles. Definitely one to grab if you are a fan of historical fiction.
Thank you, Berkley Publishing, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2022
Thank you so much for an advanced copy of That Summer in Berlin! I really liked this book!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pub Date: October 11, 2022
This review is not spoiler free, so read at your own caution! :)
I'm always amazed at how much I DON'T know when I read a historical fiction book, especially one about WW1 or WW2. I was completely invested in this story from the beginning. I found Viviane interesting and unique, and boy, was she a total spitfire when it came to standing up for the little guy! She was determined to live life helping others, and the way she used the camera to tell a story was really inspiring. I also liked her wonky family, flaws and all.
Additionally, I thought Tom was a really compelling male lead to pair with Viviane. He was all cynicism and saw the world through a very narrow lens, while Viviane saw the good in everything. He was committed to the same goals she was, but his means to the end was a much different route. His commitment to her grew and grew throughout the book, and while it was a bit insta-lovey (which I'm not a huge fan of in adult novels), I also recognize the time period/setting was prone to push people together in extreme circumstances, likely inspiring extreme feelings. That was definitely the case for Viviane and Tom. I liked that they kept getting pushed together, and that the intensity of their attraction grew as the story progressed. And that ending, where they both had the same regrets and were able to correct their mistakes? Priceless!
The setting of pre-WW2 Germany was both enlightening and terrifying to think about. The German characters were written as such intricate pieces of an ever-moving puzzle that it was hard (in a good way) to figure out who would put the knife in Vivane's back...but I knew someone would, and about 2/3s into the book, I figured out the "who" (and I was right!). But, the villain was so well-veiled while also showcasing character flaws that slowly chipped away to the manic ambition within that the story was not influenced by my guessing. I was very intrigued by Otto especially, because there seemed to be a lot more to his character than the seemingly good Nazi soldier, and that was shown to be true as the story progressed. His love for Julia was real and it endured despite an eventual war, and I believed that Julia's love for him was real too. I thought her character was also interesting because her character arc heavily showcased how influential the German regime could be on outsiders when they put their best faces forward. And, I truly believe Otto only wanted the best for his country, but I do not think the means were justified at all.
The ending really got me, but that is also what led me to rate the book four stars. I wanted more closure from Viviane and Tom after the very long build up to their romance. I felt a little shortchanged. But, I will say...the scene where Viviane and Tom swim away from the train and Otto lets them go would make an EXCELLENT movie scene. This is the type of book, I feel like, that lends itself well to a mini-series or movie adaptation. Emma Stone would make a wonderful Viviane, and Zac Efron would make a great Tom IMO. And, Otto's role is just begging to be played by Evan Peters with Andrew Garfield playing Felix.
Overall, though, I thought this book was so good and it definitely gave me Chanel Cleeton vibes in the writing style, which I loved! Two thumbs way up and I highly recommend!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pub Date: October 11, 2022
This review is not spoiler free, so read at your own caution! :)
I'm always amazed at how much I DON'T know when I read a historical fiction book, especially one about WW1 or WW2. I was completely invested in this story from the beginning. I found Viviane interesting and unique, and boy, was she a total spitfire when it came to standing up for the little guy! She was determined to live life helping others, and the way she used the camera to tell a story was really inspiring. I also liked her wonky family, flaws and all.
Additionally, I thought Tom was a really compelling male lead to pair with Viviane. He was all cynicism and saw the world through a very narrow lens, while Viviane saw the good in everything. He was committed to the same goals she was, but his means to the end was a much different route. His commitment to her grew and grew throughout the book, and while it was a bit insta-lovey (which I'm not a huge fan of in adult novels), I also recognize the time period/setting was prone to push people together in extreme circumstances, likely inspiring extreme feelings. That was definitely the case for Viviane and Tom. I liked that they kept getting pushed together, and that the intensity of their attraction grew as the story progressed. And that ending, where they both had the same regrets and were able to correct their mistakes? Priceless!
The setting of pre-WW2 Germany was both enlightening and terrifying to think about. The German characters were written as such intricate pieces of an ever-moving puzzle that it was hard (in a good way) to figure out who would put the knife in Vivane's back...but I knew someone would, and about 2/3s into the book, I figured out the "who" (and I was right!). But, the villain was so well-veiled while also showcasing character flaws that slowly chipped away to the manic ambition within that the story was not influenced by my guessing. I was very intrigued by Otto especially, because there seemed to be a lot more to his character than the seemingly good Nazi soldier, and that was shown to be true as the story progressed. His love for Julia was real and it endured despite an eventual war, and I believed that Julia's love for him was real too. I thought her character was also interesting because her character arc heavily showcased how influential the German regime could be on outsiders when they put their best faces forward. And, I truly believe Otto only wanted the best for his country, but I do not think the means were justified at all.
The ending really got me, but that is also what led me to rate the book four stars. I wanted more closure from Viviane and Tom after the very long build up to their romance. I felt a little shortchanged. But, I will say...the scene where Viviane and Tom swim away from the train and Otto lets them go would make an EXCELLENT movie scene. This is the type of book, I feel like, that lends itself well to a mini-series or movie adaptation. Emma Stone would make a wonderful Viviane, and Zac Efron would make a great Tom IMO. And, Otto's role is just begging to be played by Evan Peters with Andrew Garfield playing Felix.
Overall, though, I thought this book was so good and it definitely gave me Chanel Cleeton vibes in the writing style, which I loved! Two thumbs way up and I highly recommend!
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