I commenced reading in 2025 with this captivating novel by Marius Gabriel  and concluded it today. It was one of the 2025 reading goals to finish a book on the first day of the year. While it is a work of fiction, it presents a remarkably authentic portrayal of World War II and the efforts of certain Viennese individuals (Sigmund Freud included) to seek refuge from the oppressive influence of the invading Nazi forces. The narrative closely resembles reality, albeit with a few coincidences that may sound unbelievable. But it is an extremely gripping novel, keeping the reader curious about what lies ahead.

World War II served as a stark reminder of the abyss of human inhumanity, where barbarism reached its darkest manifestations in the atrocities of genocide, the destruction of entire cities, and the desperate attempts of innocent individuals to find safety elsewhere. They were subjected to relentless questioning about their allegiances, not to their country, but to their racial identity, and were subsequently taken away from their loved ones. Several relationships were irreparably shattered, leaving individuals forever bereft of their cherished companions.

Amidst the chaos of war, characterized by the relentless cacophony of fighter planes and tanks, Katya and Gretchen, the protagonists of this novel, maintained their determination and unshakable hope for a peaceful world for them. However, Gretchen’s traumatic and disturbed childhood compounded the challenges faced by Katya in maintaining positivity amidst the hardships.

This narrative chronicles their determination to persevere through their unwavering love for those left behind, their defiant resistance against tyrannical forces, or their ardent aspiration for a peaceful future. Although it is a work of fiction, this literary gem proved to be an exceptionally auspicious choice for my first goal of the year.