"A Promise" is a longitudinal look at the lives of three best friends, from different circumstances, as they are thrust into WWII. Their promise to stick together becomes challenged over the war and their lifetimes. This book offers a n in-depth look at some of the paths that German citizens were subject to during times of war. Historically, the facts of the war were accurate and well-woven throughout.
This book was fast-paced, and often times paragraphs jumped days, weeks, or months. Story developments come quickly and shockingly, which makes for an entertaining read. The writing is straight to the point, no nonsense or flowery language. It feels as though the writing was used strictly as a tool to get the story told. The characters may have benefitted from slightly more up-front development, as characters were introduced rapidly spanning the three friends' stories, however, I was engrossed in their stories all the same. This book has stuck with me for a few days after finishing, which to me is often the sign of a story well-told.
Overall, I would rate this book 4-stars, and would recommend it to fans of historical fiction.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!5 s Stephanie Fitzgerald875

2.5 stars
The premise of this one was more interesting than the actual book. For WW2 historical fiction, it was just okay. It was written in 3rd person, mostly staying in present tense, but occasionally changing to past tense.There were many characters besides the three main ones to keep track of, several with similar names. The storyline itself was difficult to follow, because no indication was given about time passing. (For example, a character would seem to be a young child for several chapters, then be suddenly old enough for Hitler Youth, with no explanation for the “jump”.)
It had some chilling details, as most Holocaust books do, but they almost seemed to be presented in textbook fashion, not narrative form.reviewed-on-goodreads6 s Natasha Wolf34 9

I couldn’t put this book down. From the first chapters, I was hooked on these characters and wanted to see them through the journey I knew was to come. The views into the lives of Hannah, Adam, and Elisabeth had me wrapt in the story, tense with the knowledge of what the future held for them and how they would survive through it. Amelia Martin touches on many aspects of the horrors of World War II and the Nazi party. I was pleased to see a wide range of characters and beliefs portrayed, particularly with differing sexual orientations as well as Friedrich’s succumb to propaganda over time.

There were some aspects of the writing I wished were different. The dialogue felt preachy at times, though I cannot say it was unrealistic. I wished for more focus on sensory details that paint a scene in my mind. Nevertheless, I admit this writing was a refreshing change of pace from other historical fiction novels — vignettes of three lives over about 30 years, rather than a single or double storyline followed in extensive detail as so many other novels utilize.

This book was truly moving. The last chapters had me sobbing for all the three main characters experienced and how their lives turned out. This was an excellent read and I highly recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Book Whisperer Publisher for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 4 s Errigal McGauley2 1 follower

This historical fiction novel from a debut author was….. very mediocre. The plot and the story line were there but the writing wasn’t for me. I felt there was too much dialogue and not enough background given to explain the actions of the characters. I also found character development to be lacking. Despite the intensely emotional scenarios the characters were in, I found that I didn’t know them enough to care about their outcomes.
From the description of this book I was hoping for a Kristen Hannah type historical fiction, but unfortunately, the writing style just isn’t there yet. With some (lots) of editing I would be interested in this story for the plot, but honestly I found it difficult to get through. 2 s1 comment Anne2,569 21

A Promise by Amelia Martin is another heart-breaking story of the Holocaust, this time in the guise of three young friends: Adam, Elisabeth, and Hannah. Only Elisabeth is not Jewish. They all live through trying times and lose much, some to a corrupt and evil ideology, and some to corrupt and evil people. They gain much, also, in their never ending loyalty to one another, even when they were far apart. Hannah is eventually taken to and dies in a concentration camp, but not before she hands off her daughter to people who can save her. Adam finds himself on the ill-fated St Louis but manages to land on his feet, sort of, before making it to the United States. Elisabeth stays in Munich after finding herself a young widow after losing her husband on the Russian front, where she also lost two brothers. It is a story of the damage done to young people brought up within the system, as well as the atrocities committed that we are all aware of. It was a touching story with three interesting characters who lived fairly normal lives in such extraordinary times. It was an excellent read, touching on the sorrows but not repeating detail beyond what was necessary.

I was invited to read The Promise by BookWhisperer. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BookWhisperer #AmeliaMartin #APromise1 Toni Osborne1,476 46

Germany:

This historical fiction opens in years leading to WW11 and moves along during the war and some years later. It tells us the story of three friends: Elizabeth, Adam and Hannah who sought comfort in each other as they grew up during these turbulent times. They lives will ever by changed with the rise of Adolf Hitler.

In alternate chapters, the voice of each character brings to life their experience as they try to survive the horrors imposed by the Nazi to the German population. This story is very touching but very predictable I read multiple books from that time so imagining the outcome was easy. Of course it still a difficult read, the story through the characters dabbles in a multitude known evens such as the ocean liner that was denied entry to Central and North America to its Jewish passengers and the organization that took Jewish children to safety as examples, you will find more cringing accounts as the story moves towards its conclusion. Not all outcomes were good, not everyone survived. Years later, some of the survivors found each other and “A Promise” to stay in touch was made. Their friendship will last for ever....

Although this subject is one of my favourite I admit to have struggled staying with it. The writing style and presentation somewhat choppy: short and disjointed paragraphs at time, some even read a chopping list. It did not flow smoothly and this distracted me. As for the characters Ms. Martin penned them with a solid stroke, they are we well rounded, charismatic and brilliantly represent those who were present during this terrible time. So I can’t say I love this novel but I also can’t say I hated it, so I stand on the fence and will let you enjoy it. Don’t take my words for it judge for yourselves.

My thanks to the publisher Book Whisperer and Netgalley for this ARC
1 2 comments Carolyn Scarcella349 24

The story I read is called “A promise” by Amelia Martin. This book is fictional. I would say she did write an engrossing, extraordinarily, fast paced, well researched and masterfully written. A beautiful friendship of love, sadness and grief. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. A promise by three young people were best of friends. Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah grew up in Munich, Germany. They were only 17 at the time. Elizabeth isn’t Jewish, she is feared for her friend’s safety Adam and Hannah. As a result, did Elisabeth ever see her friends again? You can decide. 1 Bonnye Reed4,432 76 Currently reading

Debut novel offered by the publisher, BookWhisperer
Netgalley
pub date February 15, 2023
BookWhisperer
requested again 2-6 at Netgalley. Will be available on KU on 2-15.1 Jennifer Janis65

I am a little conflicted with A Promise: A Sweeping Story of Friendship in WWII by Amelia Martin. The story itself is fast-paced, poignant, and intriguing- it follows 3 young Germans as the Nazis come to power in Germany. Two are Jewish, and one has a father who, not only is violent, but idolizes Hitler. They make a promise to always be together, never forget each other, and find each other no matter what happens. The story spans the lead up to WWII and ends in the 1960/70s. Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah experience the full devastation and horror that the Nazis, and war, brought to the citizens of Germany, and the world. Their stories give the reader glimpses into wartime Munich, Paris, London, and post-war Chicago and beyond. It was really interesting to read about the experience of a non-Jewish, non-National Socialist German during the war alongside the two, very different, Jewish stories. It is an experience I have rarely read about. So, the story was very interesting and I wanted to love this book so much because of it. But…

The writing is where A Promise went south for me. Told in the third person, skipping ahead and back in time inconsistently, and using short, simple sentences all made it hard for me to actually enjoy the book. Maybe it’s because I’m an English Lit. teacher, but I could not get past the basic, basic structure of the novel. At first, I thought it was a translated novel so I could excuse the writing as too simple. But I don’t believe it is a work in translation. So, then I considered that the author wanted to keep the pace fast and, maybe, confusing- sort of what Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah might be feeling- but, I don’t think that was the intent. The writing just did not work for me. Yes, you don’t want overly ‘flowery’ writing, but a reader needs something more than subject-verb- object construction!

If it wasn’t for the story- and how quickly I was reading- I would have DNF’d A Promise. Which, I guess means Martin did something right in creating characters and a plot I cared about. In the end, I was crying with sadness and joy at the way Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah’s stories ended up, and how they indeed kept their promise. But there is little to be joyful about in terms of the writing. This appears to be Amelia Martin’s debut novel, and I read an advanced copy, one hopes that some editing will take place. In the end, I am not sure how to rate the book. I am giving it a 3.5/5 on the random rating scale- LOVED the story, strongly disd the writing. I recommend, but with reservation. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. jen-s-books netgalley-books translated-works Trudy Dowling2,419 53

Amelia Martin, thank you for reminding me that many different people suffered during and after World War Two. I seem to forget that it wasn't just the enemy countries that were destroyed. I forget that Hitler's own chosen people struggled to survive.

If you weren't a supporter of Hitler you lived in fear every minute of every day. A Promise is a reminder that not all supported him. A Promise is a reminder that not all ate the Gestapo, lived the Gestapo. A Promise is just what I needed to explore a new perspective.

A group of friends, living in Munich, make a promise in hopes they will survive the war. They will all have unique struggles making the promise unattainable.

Hannah is Jewish. Her family is frequently on the run trying to survive. She must made a difficult decision that no one should have to make.

Adam is also Jewish. His family is struggling to save money to flee to America. That dream ends when the Gestapo confront him parents. The reader learns of other struggles that Jewish citizens lived through in an attempt to live.

Elisabeth has survived years of abuse at the hands of her father. He becomes more controlling under the support of the Nazis. Family dynamics add to the drama. She lives in fear that her friendships with Hannah and Adam will be discovered. I can only begin to imagine the horrors she experienced. Her only escape is Otto, the man she loves and wants to marry.

Unfortunately, Olga is obsessed with Otto. She will use her connections with the Gestapo to destroy their love. I had forgotten how easy it was to get the Gestapo to do the dirty work to destroy others.

Although A Promise is historical fiction, there are truths within the story. I am not sure if the author planned it but she encouraged me to learn more. She has touched on what life may have been during and after the war. Her story tore me apart. I didn't expect a happily ever after but the way she deals with final days of some had me grabbing a box of tissues. Jeff DawsonAuthor 24 books98

This is a great tale chronicling the lives of Elisabeth, her overbearing father Hartwig, who spends he time and money at the bar with his son Henning, her mother Erna, who does he best to keep Hartwig in check, Hannah, Elisabeth’s best friend, Olga, her nemesis, just because she’s a mean girl, Adam, a good friend, Dieter, her knight in shining armor.
Reading this story had me reflecting back to the mini-series, “The Holocaust.” The author weaves a believable tale with the characters. There is triumph, defeat and heartache. I enjoyed all the interaction with the characters. Some you cheered for, others you couldn’t wait for them to receive what they had sowed.
The author, Amelia Martin does an excellent job describing the horrors and joys of living in Germany during the reign of Adolf Hitler and his Nazi regime.
This is not an HEA. This is novel describes how barbaric the Germans and those that were fiercely devoted to the regime, Henning and Hartwig, even as the walls began crumbling down and it was apparent all would eventually be lost, they held on to the bitter end.
Came across twenty unique grammatical issues that need to be cleaned. They did not distract from the reading experience.
IE” “That night, Elisabeth looks to city lights. Add the word “the” before city."
“Henning pays me every week.” Erna step out of kitchen. Should be stepped. Add “the” before kitchen.
“Why are marrying Henning.” Add “you” before marrying.
There are others but I’m not being paid to edit the story. My services are available.
This is a great read and does finally come full circle with all the characters, but the end gets too long in the tooth.
Who will this? Anyone looking for a great story on the Holocaust.

Four Stars
Joyce Cacioppo stein38

The Promise by Amelia Martin is a story about friendship, love, and survival. Germany in the late 1930’s/early 1940’s is a country that is trying to build itself up after the Great War. A man by the name of Adolf Hitler becomes Chancellor. He is determined to make Germany the greatest world power and believes that to do this, his country has to be pure aryan. Anyone that does not fit into his vision needs to go, including but not limited to the Jewish people and anyone he considers undesirable.

Elizabeth, Hanna, and Adam grew up together. They are the best of friends. But as they grow and so does their country, their friendship is jeopardized. Hannah and Adam are Jewish. When the country starts rounding up the Jews they are all separated and struggle to survive. Adam and Hannah attempt to leave the country to stay alive. Hannah married Otto and had a little girl named Helena who she was forced to send away in hopes that she would have a better chance for survival. The book takes us through their struggles and and how each is forced to deal with their lives. Not all of the outcomes are good.

I struggled a bit in the beginning of the book as it seemed to go slowly. However it did pick up as it went along and I became so absorbed that I did not want to put it down. I felt Amelia’s writing was good and I did how she went back and forth between the characters. It made me want to keep reading to find out how they continued to deal with their problems. I would highly recommend this to anyone that enjoys reading historical fiction. Thank you Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read this pre-release. Joan2,651 32

Review of eBook

In post-World War One Germany, three young people have grown up together. Elisabeth Ehrler struggles with her abusive father while her friend, Adam Hershel, drops out of school to go to work. Their mutual friend, Hannah Berkowicz, wishes to become a nurse but her parents dismiss her desire as a wild idea.

As the three friends struggle with family issues, Adolf Hitler begins his rise to power. Elisabeth’s father, Hartwig, spends his time plotting the Fatherland’s return to glory. He’s determined to find a true German . . . a Nazi . . . for his daughter’s husband.

Can the three young people keep their friendship intact in spite of the Nazi horrors around them? Will they discover the freedom they desire?

=========

Strong characters populate this historical tale of the Nazi rise to power in Germany. Well-developed, nuanced, and believable, their relationships are realistic and true to the time in which they live.

Told alternately from the viewpoints of the three friends, the story is supremely difficult; the atrocities suffered are heartrending. Tension underlies the telling of this sometimes-predictable tale as the Nazi movement gains more and more power. Unadorned details of the camps and of life for the German people under Nazi rule keep the reader worried for the three young people and, at the same time, grounded in the history of the time.

Readers who enjoy historical, character-driven stories are sure to find “A Promise” to be thought-provoking, emotional, and compelling.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book from The Book Whisperer and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

Brenda1,384 21

A Promise by Amelia Martin is a Historical Fiction novel which takes place in Munich mostly during WWII. Three loyal friends vow to help each other through life's terrible difficulties as much as possible. Though their circumstances in ways differ, the common thread is the dark torment in every way imaginable during the Holocaust. Hannah and Adam are Jewish, Elisabeth is German, but they all suffer unspeakably. The reader is privy to the bitterness, resentment, hatred, love, obsession, sorrow and hope the three (and other characters) experience. Reading about the despicable treatment of Jews and non-Nazi sympathizers always causes my heart to ache. What they endured is incomprehensible.

Mental and physical repercussions of war are well written and details are not glossed over. The lack of personal character descriptions is impactful and forces the reader to focus on what is relevant and important. However, the author did show us very real glimpses into their minds and hearts. I that the author explains what ultimately happens to the characters.

The writing is somewhat tricky to follow at first as there are no explanations for time jumps. But the pure rawness in its simplicity is profound and really grew on me. One of the most intense quotes is something Hannah said while at the killing camp, Auschwitz, "...when she was a human...".

If you seek an atypical Historical Fiction, give this one a try. It may grab you as it did me.

My sincere thank you to Book Whisperer and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this emotive novel. Cindi284 26

A Promise is the story of three friends growing up in Germany prior to and through World War II. Two of the friends are Jewish. The plot of how they navigate that friendship during the changing policies of Hitler and the National Socialist Party are what drives this story.

I was intrigued by the plot summary prior to reading this book. I expected twists and turns relating to the circumstances each character found themselves in as each chapter alternately focused on the situation of one of the three friends. Unfortunately, this book did not hold my interest and I stopped reading it about halfway through.

While the author did a great job of keeping the story going with dramatic situations and issues the characters needed to overcome, I did not feel that each character was fully developed. There were no adjectives used when introducing the main characters. What did they look ? How did they dress? What did the part of the city they lived in look ? Even the secondary characters seemed one dimensional and stock characters found in any story taking place in Europe between the world wars.

I wanted to this novel. I wanted to care about the characters and what the author was trying to say. However, I could not get past the lack of character development and some of the dialogue that did not sound realistic.

I received a free digital copy of this book from the publisher on NetGalley.
didn-t-finish Nate Skinner20 1 follower

A heartbreaking story of three friends that grew up in Germany before World War II who make a simple promise to stay together. This story follows these friends through World War II. The author presents several questions about Germany and how Germans will be thought of in the future. This book promises to pluck away at the heartstrings and play you a fiddle as these friends try to survive the war.
I think the story is original and very compelling. I think closure is given in all fronts without being a burden on the reader. I think Amelia Martin has a world class story on her hands that seems to be her first translated story that is coming to American markets. I look forward to reading more by this author and I would to give Amelia Martin huge kudos for this story.
The only downside to the advance reader version that I read is that the translator did what I assume to be a very faithful translation, but sadly that makes the writing very clunky in English. I hope before the book is published that a lot of this clunkiness is worked out so that readers can just enjoy the wonderful story that has been presented to us.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by the publisher via netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I plan to review and discuss this book on my podcast The Honest Reviewers https://open.spotify.com/show/3H3ugH4... . Katherine Bush19 2

I received this book from NetGalley in return from my honest review of the book.

I wish I had started this book earlier in the day so I could have finished in one reading. From the beginning this book draws you in to quickly empathize with the main characters. I have read and watched many historical fictions in my life but this one shared some very different perspectives.

First with start with Elisabeth who comes from a German low income family and has family members in the early Nazi party but views differ from those members. Then we learn about Adam, one of her two best friends a low income German Jewish family who works for a Nazi supporter shop in Munich. Lastly, we learn about Hannah, the third of the best friends, who comes from an upper class Jewish family. Her family wants to her to get married and she wants to pursue a career in medicine. You watch has the Nazi party gains control and how all their lives are turned upside. There were many moments that brought the full spectrum of emotions. Although this story is heartbreaking at times, the author leaves in a place of contentment for the character's lives and how they have made peace with that time of their life.
 
I highly recommend this story to anyone who is looking for a different perspective on this time period of history.This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.Show full review Sharyn2,692 15

It is going to be difficult to review this book because the subject matter is presented in quite a forthright way for a very emotional story. Three German friends make a promise to always stand by each other.
WWI has ended, and Germany continues to be in turmoil.
Elizabeth, Hannah, and Adam are best friends in school. Elizabeth has an abusive father who just wants to marry her off. There is a subplot that felt unnecessary, that kept Elizabeth from marrying the boy she loved.
Hannah and Adam are Jewish, so we know where their story is headed.
The book begins in the 30's, goes through the war years, characters seemingly escape to France, but end up at Auswitz and Dachau. Another character escapes to England and eventually is able to go to America.
Meanwhile, we see what life is for Germans, with bombings and more.
I am not giving character names as I don't want to spoil the book.
I will say there is a lovely wrap up which had me in tears.
This is a relatively accurate rendering of history as seen through the eyes of many characters. Covering so many years and so many characters makes following the story a little difficult. Still, I believe it is important to continue reading these WWII books, because people seem to be forgetting history.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review. Eunice R159 3

It would be stereotyping to say all Germans were bad pre- and during WWII. This historical novel gives great clarity to this factor and that many suffered severely under Hitler's Reich' evil rule. This unfolds in the lives of Elizabeth, Adam and Hannah as they each get their turns to 'speak'. It is from them a promise is given.

This is no book for sissies as I found a whole range of emotions course through me, from horror and digust to tender moments. I feel Amelia Martin has captured a most realistic portrayal to those times and the far-reaching ripple effects of Hitler and his Nazis' hate.

I really appreciated how Martin inserted philosphical reasonings, opinions and conclusions via her characters in such clever ways. The thoughts and feelings of her characters' reactions to the 'poisoned brainwashings' of the peoples and even regarding God and His care or indifference to the plight of millions.

This is definitely not a 'happily-ever-after' saga, so brace yourself.

A 5-Star rating from me.

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

January 2024

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.

Emma70

This was a very well done interpretation of three different perspectives of the Nazis and WWII. I typically consider myself a slower reader, but this book was a very quick read and flowed nicely. I rated this book a 4, but think it deserves a 5 if certain errors are fixed. Throughout the reading, I was able to find multiple grammatical errors that distracted from reading and interupted the flow of the story. However, if these errors were fixed, I feel that my rating would increase to a 5.

One point of this book that I found to be interesting, and rewarding, was that the author portrayed what it was for a non-Jewish German be opposed to the Nazi beliefs. I feel that this side of the story is not told often, and so I was pleased that one of the perspectives chosen was Elisabeth's.

I feel that as I read the charcters were very well developed. I felt as if I knew each of them well, and I enjoyed reading each storyline as they developed. In addition to the development of the characters, I feel that the chosen writing style was also fitting for the novel. It originally took a small amount of time to get used to the writing style, but once I was used to it, I enjoyed it.

Since the story spans such a long period of time, I feel that the reader is left with many unanswered questions, but the author's attempt to provide closure over the main characters is done in a manner that does not dissappoint. Her writing left me wanting more, and to have some closure to those unanswered questions.

Highly recommend this book, especially once grammatical errors are corrected.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

For more and discussions, listen to my podcast The Honest Book Reviewers with Nate and Emma.

https://open.spotify.com/show/3H3ugH4... Kathleen Riggs401 15

A Perilous Journey to Freedom
A Promise by Amilia Martin is a historical fiction book set in WW2. The three main characters are Hannah, Adam, and Elisabeth. The book tells the story of the three friends Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah who are teenagers, and are around 17 years old when the war breaks out. The novel takes you through each character's life, experience, and story as they survive Nazi Germany. Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah sought comfort in each other as they grow up during these turbulent times.
I was pleased to see a wide range of characters and I found myself engrossed in the story as there were dark undercurrents that flow through the lives of these three friends. Each one must endure their own journey and there are a lot of heart-breaking moments that Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah experience throughout the novel. Amidst the heartache, there is a lot of love and happiness as well.
If you historical fiction books based in Germany, then you will enjoy this book by Amelia Martin. Amelia did a wonderful job in describing the characters as you follow their perilous journey to freedom. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Lily362 3

In this strong historical fiction novel, Martin takes readers to interwar Germany and into the lives of Hannah, Adam, and Elisabeth, who all have their own struggles. Elisabeth and her little brother Friedrich live in an abusive household where their father and older brother are incredibly controlling, and their sister-in-law Olga is cruel, unhappy, and manipulative. Adam and Hannah are both Jewish; Hannah and her husband Otto escape to France, while Adam travels on the unfortunate St. Louis and ends up in England. Separated by war, circumstance, and tragedy, readers follow the three friends throughout the war as they all try to make it through and reunite. Martin’s characters, all telling the story from their perspectives, are complex and engaging, with unique relationships with others and themselves. The heart of the story, the unique difficulties all three protagonists face add to the depth of the narrative and the strength of their characters throughout the novel. Location is also critical to the three protagonists and their personal journeys through the novel; Adam ends up in England and the United States, where he faces his own demons, while Hannah and Otto, in France, seem to escape the war until it is too late. Firetruckmama1,160

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
?“A Promise” is a historical fiction debut novel by Amelia Martin. This book follows three friends as teens growing up in Germany (post-WWI) and then into WWII. I found the relationship between these three friends a very kind one - it’s obvious through their actions and dialogue that they care about each other deeply. It’s also obvious that Ms. Martin did a lot of historical research - from describing Germany post-WWI and also during the build-up to and post WWII. For a debut novel, I think Ms. Martin did a great job. The quibbles I have with the book were more stylistic ones - Elisabeth’s father seems to always be referred to by his full name, not by just his first name or even “Father”; the story is told in present tense; the passage of time is linear but except for key dates they aren’t mentioned; and a few other minor things. Overall, an interesting read. I’d say if you historical fiction books based in Germany post-WWI and more character-driven novels, this one might be one to pick up.netgalley Kayla Lambert153 7

A Promise by Amelia Martin tells the heart-wrenching story of childhood friends Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah. The story takes place as Hitler and his Nazi Party takes over Germany in the early 1930's. As the story begins, Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah are teenagers, around 16 or 17 years old. The novel takes you through each characters life, experience, and story as they survive Nazi Germany and the plummeting years that follow as World War II unfolds and their lives are all upended. Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah are all fighting for their own survival and each characters story is very unique with the sort of troubles they face.

This is a fast paced novel, and the story line progresses extremely quickly, which isn't a bad thing and actually worked really well with this novel. There are a lot of heart breaking moments Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah experience throughout the novel. But, amidst the heartache, if you look really carefully, there is a lot of love and happiness too.

Amelia Martin did a great job at describing the characters emotions, feelings, and helping the reader also feel the emotions of the characters.1 Caroline Hedges397 3

This was an admirable first novel. It was plain how much research was done and the overall story was a beautiful, heartbreaking, story of friendship and strength. I can’t fault the storyline, the tearjerking moments and the scope of the characters lives. This book was let down by the experience of the writing. The author’s skill is limited. The dialogue was wooden and forced, Martin spent too much time telling the reader what was happening ie Adam went to the shops and he got a bag of food (this is not a direct quote!). This kind of writing puts a barrier between the reader and the character, losing the emotion and descriptive eloquence that is needed to really pull a reader into the story. At times I felt I was reading a children’s book meant for learning to read or a technical book with instructions. The lack of engagement is why this book would have gotten 3 stars. Yet, there were a couple of moments where Martin nailed it and had tears rolling down my cheeks and those moments catapulted the book to 4.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. Sdiri Mongia24

I was happy to have the privilege of early access through the NetGalley app.
"A Promise," authored by Amelia Martin, is the irresistible historical fiction novel that had me hooked from the beginning. The life stories of Hannah, Adam, and Elisabeth become enmeshed in the violent, chaotic post-WWI era, and their adventure through Hitler’s ascendancy keeps me biting my nails throughout!

Amelia Martin’s novel adeptly delves into the depths of World War II and the Nazi party, featuring an array of personalities with different thoughts and beliefs. A couple of conversations felt forced and didactic, but for the most part, it made a nice change from your typical historical fiction.

What I would not have expected at all is that by the end of this novel, the final chapters had become so emotional that I could not help but burst into tears considering all those fates and events taking place there. "A Promise" is a touching book and highly recommended read as it shows us a fresh outlook on how people have shown their courage and strength in times of trouble throughout history. Lisa Gentry591 26

"If you thought only love was blind, you haven't witnessed the true darkness of hate."

This is the first sentence in a debut novel by Amelia Martin, immediately setting the tone for the reader. Through the lives of three best friends, we bear witness to the horrors of Nazi Germany. This novel is impressive in scope, from the early 1930s through the mid-1960s, and well-researched. I that this book takes the reader full circle, leaving no questions unanswered concerning the three main characters. (The inclusion of more dates would have been most helpful, though.) It's unsettling to read about the Nazification of Germany by Hitler, using techniques and language that we are seeing once again. That makes reading books this one more important than ever. This is a quick read and well worth your time. I enjoyed it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are my own.historical-fiction netgalley ww-ll1 Crystal154 4

It's after WW1, and Hitler is just coming into power. Three best friends, Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah, try to figure out the best way to stay together and survive.

I honestly could not put this book down. The story switches POVs between the 3 main characters, and I just couldn't get enough. It's written in the 3rd person, which took a few chapters to get used to. While this story is not based on real people, it's the story I'm sure many people lived through.

I found myself rooting for each of the characters through their own stories. Each storyline is different, but the focus on their friendship and their promise to each other is all throughout. Elisabeth, Adam, and Hannah each had to overcome huge hurdles and emotional choices to keep themselves and the people they loved safe.

Thank you to Netgalley, Amelia Martin, and the publishers for this free ebook. This review is 100% my own and honest opinion. Linda S.531 2

A Promise is a story told in the three distinct voices of three best friends growing up in WWII Germany - Hannah and Adam, who are Jewish, and Aryan Elizabeth, whose brutish father is a Nazi. Hannah and her husband move to Paris during the period when Germany was taking away the rights of Jewish citizens, and Adam ends up escaping Germany to England. There is so much going on during this story - it was difficult to read at times since Hannah greatly suffers at the hands of the Nazis - but even in the midst of the brutality, Hannah meets people who help her to survive. The characters are able and their friendship is their strength. I found this book very moving and I recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.arc Dione275 3

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