Daughters of the Occupation

A Novel of WWII

De: Shelly Sanders

Narrado por: Kathleen Gati

Inspired by true events in World War II Latvia, an emotionally charged novel of sacrifice, trauma, resilience, and survival, as witnessed by three generations of women.

On one extraordinary day in 1940, Miriam Talan’s comfortable life is shattered. While she gives birth to her second child, a son she and her husband, Max, name Monya, the Soviets invade the Baltic state of Latvia and occupy the capital city of Riga, her home. Because the Talans are Jewish, the Soviets confiscate Max’s business and the family’s house and bank accounts, leaving them with nothing.

Then, the Nazis arrive. They kill Max and begin to round up Jews. Fearing for her newborn son and her young daughter, Ilana, Miriam asks her loyal housekeeper to hide them and conceal their Jewish roots to keep them safe until the savagery ends.

Three decades later, in Chicago, 24-year-old Sarah Byrne is mourning the untimely death of her mother, Ilana. Sarah’s estranged grandmother, Miriam, attends the funeral, opening the door to shocking family secrets. Sarah probes Miriam for information about the past, but it is only when Miriam is in the hospital, delirious with fever, that she begs Sarah to find the son she left behind in Latvia.

Traveling to the Soviet satellite state, Sarah begins her search with the help of Roger, a charismatic Russian-speaking professor. But as they come closer to the truth, she realizes her quest may have disastrous consequences.

A magnificent, emotionally powerful story of family and the lingering devastation of war, The Daughters of the Occupation explores how trauma is passed down in families and illuminates the strength and grace that can be shared by generations.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2022 Shelly Sanders (P)2022 HarperCollins Publishers

The inhumanity and the horrors the grief and the sadness made my heart ache!

The story was gripping and realistic, but very difficult to listen to as war always is

This is an excellent addition to anyone’s collection

Love to hear the Latvian perspective as well as more information about the soviets. Well written and excellent story. I have read a lot of books in this genre and really enjoyed this one in particular.

Excellent virtually untold story of the Jews of Latvia

A must read for this genre. Also sheds light on the horros of the soviet occupation in addition to the heinous annihilation of most Latvian Jews by the Nazis and their Latvian collaborators.

Thoughtful and well done

Very original and great story. Intelligently written and I learned a lot about Latvia’s history.

Daughters of the Occupation - totally captivating!

Wonderful story of resilience and bravery. A story based on the strength of women and the unbreakable bond of mother and child. This book brought forth the atrocities put upon Jews of Latvia under Russian rule. A history I knew nothing about. The suffering was unimaginable, but true. Thank you for the light put on these long hidden crimes.

Fantastic book about WW2

Stepped in historical facts. Personal amazing story novel about an unknown country Latvia and it’s occupation by The Soviet’s and the Germany

Great book!

Wonderful, well written book. I could hardly take a break from listening. As disturbing as any war is, this book was about one woman’s courage and love for her family.

Inspiring story with hard truths about history

I loved the story. We can all learn from history and the horrors of it. Even if it isn't pleasant. This way it is never repeated and we understand each other more. The narration was sometimes difficult to follow because it was almost the same throughout for all characters.

Performance amazing

Kathleen Gati- great performance as always, brings Shelly Sanders story depth and personality to a story of generational tragedy.

Wonderful Story

I loved this book! It’s not your typical Holocaust book. It’s so much more. I loved every character and how there were two stories going on. I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend!