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Passing Rites #2
Occasions of Sin
For seven centuries, the German convent of Obberoth has been hiding the nuns' secrets—forbidden passions, scandalous manuscripts locked away, a ruined medical career, perhaps even a murder. In 1931, Margarethe von Stahle, an aristocratic physician, arrives at the convent to interview Sister Augustine, a candidate for head nurse. The nun’s past is shrouded in mystery. She abandoned a medical career, and her final vows were delayed for an unspeakable reason. Determined to lift the veil of secrecy, Margarethe finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery, a complicated romance, and a domestic drama that threatens her orderly life. At once a mystery and a love story, Occasions of Sin is part of the Passing Rites series, which follows the aristocratic Stahle family through the 20th Century. This novel, set in the twilight years of the Weimar Republic, touches on issues the Nazis would later address in frightening ways—the role of women, homosexuality, abortion, euthanasia, and the rights of the individual versus duty to the group.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2012
21 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Elena Graf
19 books97 followersAward-winning novelist Elena Graf has been scribbling stories since high school. Her first novel, Occasions of Sin was published in 2012. She considers herself primarily a historical novelist, but she is probably best known for the contemporary Hobbs series, featuring a group of middle-aged women living in a small town in Maine.
The novels in the Passing Rites series are set in Europe in the early 20th century and show how a noble family dealt with the momentous changes of the period. Two volumes in the series won both Golden Crown Literary Society and Rainbow Awards for historical fiction.
Elena Graf pursued a Ph.D. in philosophy and often explores difficult moral situations in her fiction. She ended up in the “accidental profession” of publishing, where she worked for almost four decades. She lives in coastal Maine.
The novels in the Passing Rites series are set in Europe in the early 20th century and show how a noble family dealt with the momentous changes of the period. Two volumes in the series won both Golden Crown Literary Society and Rainbow Awards for historical fiction.
Elena Graf pursued a Ph.D. in philosophy and often explores difficult moral situations in her fiction. She ended up in the “accidental profession” of publishing, where she worked for almost four decades. She lives in coastal Maine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 6, 2019
This is an extraordinarily beautiful and compelling love story. I started writing reviews so that I could remember what I did or didn't like about a book. I don't need to write a review for myself for Occasions of Sin because I don't think I'll ever forget it. Dr Margarethe von Stahle is a brilliant, hard and powerful woman who has managed to become a renowned surgeon in 1931 in spite of her gender. Her demands for excellence means she hasn't been able to keep a head nurse in the Catholic hospital she operates from. Her aunt, the Mother Superior of a convent five hours away, feels she has the perfect candidate for her difficult niece. Sr Augustine is so much more than Margarethe expected.
I love historical romances but I often find them difficult to read because the happy ending seems like an impossibility with women doing what is required of them. However, there is no way I want to stop reading this series with its beautiful writing, complex characters and vividly expressed setting.
I love historical romances but I often find them difficult to read because the happy ending seems like an impossibility with women doing what is required of them. However, there is no way I want to stop reading this series with its beautiful writing, complex characters and vividly expressed setting.
March 15, 2019
First off, I would like to thank Jhosy for recommending Occasions Of Sin and the rest of the books in the series, informing me about the sale and writing very good reviews on all three books. Thank you, Jhosy :D - that's the most creative smiley I can come out with, you on the other hand are the Queen Of All Smileys.
I would also like to thank the author, Elena Graf. Besides writing an epic tale, you created amazing playlists for all the books on Spotify. I truly enjoyed Der Rosenkavalier, Op 59 / Act 2 and Tristan und Isolde, WWV 9O / Act 3. They were my constant companion during my reading session. I love the cover too, another good job there.
Margarethe Frederika Scholastica Ursula Veronika Gabrielle von Stahle, Reichsgräfin von Langenberg-Edelheim, Gräfin von und zu Raithschau, Boronin von Leichthal - Margarethe to us readers and Sister Augustine had a rocky beginning but the strength of their connection to one another was undeniable. It defied religion and more but their abiding love could never be extinguished nor tempered no matter what the hurdles might be.
I wasn't expecting to fall hard for Occasions Of Sin, A heartachingly beautiful, mind-boggling and spectacular story. Elena Graf did a splendid job creating a romantic tale between two completely opposite women brought together at first by their love towards medicine during one of the darkest times to fall in love.
Besides fawning over Margarethe and Sister Augustine's page time - including their medical discussions, I looked forward to Margarethe's scenes with her aunt, Reverand Mother Scholastica.
I will not be forgetting these characters, their plight and the amount of research Ms.Graf unintentionally made me do to enjoy the story even more, anytime soon.
Why, Ms.Graf.. I really need to know why.
I would also like to thank the author, Elena Graf. Besides writing an epic tale, you created amazing playlists for all the books on Spotify. I truly enjoyed Der Rosenkavalier, Op 59 / Act 2 and Tristan und Isolde, WWV 9O / Act 3. They were my constant companion during my reading session. I love the cover too, another good job there.
Margarethe Frederika Scholastica Ursula Veronika Gabrielle von Stahle, Reichsgräfin von Langenberg-Edelheim, Gräfin von und zu Raithschau, Boronin von Leichthal - Margarethe to us readers and Sister Augustine had a rocky beginning but the strength of their connection to one another was undeniable. It defied religion and more but their abiding love could never be extinguished nor tempered no matter what the hurdles might be.
I wasn't expecting to fall hard for Occasions Of Sin, A heartachingly beautiful, mind-boggling and spectacular story. Elena Graf did a splendid job creating a romantic tale between two completely opposite women brought together at first by their love towards medicine during one of the darkest times to fall in love.
Besides fawning over Margarethe and Sister Augustine's page time - including their medical discussions, I looked forward to Margarethe's scenes with her aunt, Reverand Mother Scholastica.
I will not be forgetting these characters, their plight and the amount of research Ms.Graf unintentionally made me do to enjoy the story even more, anytime soon.
Why, Ms.Graf.. I really need to know why.
November 6, 2018
I've been sitting on this review for a few weeks now. Mainly because I feel I just can't seem to come up with anything that will do the book full justice. For once, the blurb does a great job of articulating most of the important themes touched on by the book. And also reviews by vacatedboat and Corrie. Like the former, I'm still in awe. I read Books 1 and 2 back to back, even skipping out on some Netgalley reads. And throughout my two-book journey, I was transported and completely immersed into another world and another time. It's a world of contrasts--from rich, decadent aristocratic gatherings to the quiet, spartan convents, from frenetic operating rooms to vast country estates dating back to Prussian times.
Occasions of Sin is a gorgeous historical fiction--richly drawn and amazingly detailed--a veritable feast for any reader's senses. It features some of the most compelling characters I've come across in lesfic--characters that will carve out and occupy a permanent niche in your brain and your heart. As implied by the cover, the book's main theme is one of choice: faith or love? There are also multiple secrets to uncover, both ancient and current; a cultural trip back in time to the slices of life in the Weimar Republic; glimpses of convent life in secretive, cloistered monasteries. All of that against a backdrop of political uncertainty and rising intolerance.
Margarethe von Stahle is a full blooded German aristocrat, an accomplished surgeon and a fine amateur singer. Supremely confident, and self-assured, almost to the point of being overbearing, she has grasped the opportunities afforded by her class and station and carved out a successful career in the male-dominated profession: surgery. Margarethe is also an accomplished scholar, a gifted singer, and a master of many pursuits. Her long list of talents do verge on the Mary Sueish, but there's no questioning her sharp intellect and cunning. Her secret to success? Ambition, intelligence, astute reading of people, and the single-minded pursuit of whatever she sets her mind on--such as wooing the most unavailable woman to her--a cloistered nun preparing to take her vows.
Sister Augustine is contemplating taking her final vows to become officially a nun. But the daily routine of convent life bores her so she applied to be head nurse of Margarethe's hospital while pondering her future. Despite choosing such a radically different calling, Sister Augustine is no slouch in the intellectual department, having previously been on her way to a bright medical career before being mysteriously sidetracked.
Now Margerethe is on a new mission--to win back Sister Augustine from being lost to the religious vocation, both for the medical profession and for her own heart.
The leads have amazing chemistry together and their interactions, including their frequent battles of will and wit, are the highlights of the book. Then there are the myriad secondary characters--all incisively drawn--vibrant, stoic, vapid, tragic... they run the gamut. The rich period details and settings add greatly to the overall authentic feel of the book.
Excitement and anticipation comes in the form of the chase - - for the truth of why Sister Augustine turned her back on life, - - and once the truth is out, the battle for her heart. Interestingly and thankfully, there's not a lot of discussion or arguments of the theological variety. The women have opposing beliefs and they respect each other's convictions.
This would make a really good book if it just ended here. Fluffy readers can stop at the first book and enjoy a lovely, historical romance. But there's a second and a third book. And being that WWII is just right around the corner, it's chilling just thinking about it. Well, I've actually read the second book, and while it hasn't gotten into the worst of the horrors of the war yet, it is still dark and depressing in parts. The third book though...is giving me shivers. I accidentally blundered onto its blurb at the end of the second book, engrossed as I was and not paying attention to the % read. I'm almost afraid to read it, lol. Maybe I'll stick to the prequel instead.
Anyway, final thoughts. I haven't had a book's characters affect me this much in a while. The historical and cultural details are rare in lesfic (reminded me straight away of Heather Rose Jones' Alpennia series). Definitely grab if you're a historical romance fan. And even if you're not but love stories about strong, succesful women, this fits the bill to a T.
5 stars
Occasions of Sin is a gorgeous historical fiction--richly drawn and amazingly detailed--a veritable feast for any reader's senses. It features some of the most compelling characters I've come across in lesfic--characters that will carve out and occupy a permanent niche in your brain and your heart. As implied by the cover, the book's main theme is one of choice: faith or love? There are also multiple secrets to uncover, both ancient and current; a cultural trip back in time to the slices of life in the Weimar Republic; glimpses of convent life in secretive, cloistered monasteries. All of that against a backdrop of political uncertainty and rising intolerance.
Margarethe von Stahle is a full blooded German aristocrat, an accomplished surgeon and a fine amateur singer. Supremely confident, and self-assured, almost to the point of being overbearing, she has grasped the opportunities afforded by her class and station and carved out a successful career in the male-dominated profession: surgery. Margarethe is also an accomplished scholar, a gifted singer, and a master of many pursuits. Her long list of talents do verge on the Mary Sueish, but there's no questioning her sharp intellect and cunning. Her secret to success? Ambition, intelligence, astute reading of people, and the single-minded pursuit of whatever she sets her mind on--such as wooing the most unavailable woman to her--a cloistered nun preparing to take her vows.
Sister Augustine is contemplating taking her final vows to become officially a nun. But the daily routine of convent life bores her so she applied to be head nurse of Margarethe's hospital while pondering her future. Despite choosing such a radically different calling, Sister Augustine is no slouch in the intellectual department, having previously been on her way to a bright medical career before being mysteriously sidetracked.
Now Margerethe is on a new mission--to win back Sister Augustine from being lost to the religious vocation, both for the medical profession and for her own heart.
The leads have amazing chemistry together and their interactions, including their frequent battles of will and wit, are the highlights of the book. Then there are the myriad secondary characters--all incisively drawn--vibrant, stoic, vapid, tragic... they run the gamut. The rich period details and settings add greatly to the overall authentic feel of the book.
Excitement and anticipation comes in the form of the chase - - for the truth of why Sister Augustine turned her back on life, - - and once the truth is out, the battle for her heart. Interestingly and thankfully, there's not a lot of discussion or arguments of the theological variety. The women have opposing beliefs and they respect each other's convictions.
This would make a really good book if it just ended here. Fluffy readers can stop at the first book and enjoy a lovely, historical romance. But there's a second and a third book. And being that WWII is just right around the corner, it's chilling just thinking about it. Well, I've actually read the second book, and while it hasn't gotten into the worst of the horrors of the war yet, it is still dark and depressing in parts. The third book though...is giving me shivers. I accidentally blundered onto its blurb at the end of the second book, engrossed as I was and not paying attention to the % read. I'm almost afraid to read it, lol. Maybe I'll stick to the prequel instead.
Anyway, final thoughts. I haven't had a book's characters affect me this much in a while. The historical and cultural details are rare in lesfic (reminded me straight away of Heather Rose Jones' Alpennia series). Definitely grab if you're a historical romance fan. And even if you're not but love stories about strong, succesful women, this fits the bill to a T.
5 stars
August 17, 2018
I’m not sure there’s a way to do this book justice. I’m going to start by admitting that I am a sucker for historical romance, no matter how much it may hurt to place myself in the shoes of the protagonists. While this book doesn’t really touch on the societal mentality towards homosexuality in the 1930s, it is shown through in the behaviors and decisions made by both main characters.
‘Occasions of Sin’ is the story of Margarethe and Sister Augustine, told from alternating perspectives and in 5 parts, in 1930s Berlin. This is written in first person POV, whereas parts 1, 3, and 5 are told from Margarethe’s perspective, and parts 2, 4, and the epilogue from Sister Augustine’s. I am a fan of first person narrative anyway, but I really thought the author did a brilliant job in sectioning off the parts of the story where we were allowed to be in each character’s thoughts. I was left wondering what we would discover next and it compelled me to continue moving forward because I just had to know how everything would resolve itself for Margarethe and Sister Augustine. Add great writing to the wonderment and that’s a winning book as far as I’m concerned.
Margarethe and Sister Augustine are both complex characters, but Sister Augustine was by far the more interesting one. She has a lot of depth and it is her history that we unravel as we move forward in this book. While I don’t agree with all of the actions taken by either character, I certainly can sympathize with them given their circumstances.
Like I said, I’m not going to do this book justice. If you’re a fan of historical romance, unraveling mysterious pasts, or just good writing with an interesting story, then I definitely recommend ‘Occasions of Sin.’ I couldn’t put it down, and when I was forced to because of this silly little thing known as ‘adult responsibility,’ my mind was still on this book.
-----
Wow. I may come back and review this; I want to...but all I can think right now is 'wow.' And thank you Lex Kent for the recommendation and Corrie for a compelling review. I'm going to go think some thoughts now and maybe I'll figure out how to sum up this experience.
‘Occasions of Sin’ is the story of Margarethe and Sister Augustine, told from alternating perspectives and in 5 parts, in 1930s Berlin. This is written in first person POV, whereas parts 1, 3, and 5 are told from Margarethe’s perspective, and parts 2, 4, and the epilogue from Sister Augustine’s. I am a fan of first person narrative anyway, but I really thought the author did a brilliant job in sectioning off the parts of the story where we were allowed to be in each character’s thoughts. I was left wondering what we would discover next and it compelled me to continue moving forward because I just had to know how everything would resolve itself for Margarethe and Sister Augustine. Add great writing to the wonderment and that’s a winning book as far as I’m concerned.
Margarethe and Sister Augustine are both complex characters, but Sister Augustine was by far the more interesting one. She has a lot of depth and it is her history that we unravel as we move forward in this book. While I don’t agree with all of the actions taken by either character, I certainly can sympathize with them given their circumstances.
Like I said, I’m not going to do this book justice. If you’re a fan of historical romance, unraveling mysterious pasts, or just good writing with an interesting story, then I definitely recommend ‘Occasions of Sin.’ I couldn’t put it down, and when I was forced to because of this silly little thing known as ‘adult responsibility,’ my mind was still on this book.
-----
Wow. I may come back and review this; I want to...but all I can think right now is 'wow.' And thank you Lex Kent for the recommendation and Corrie for a compelling review. I'm going to go think some thoughts now and maybe I'll figure out how to sum up this experience.
January 21, 2018
Occasions of Sin (Passing Rites) by Elena Graf was quite the emotional roller-coaster, but what outstanding book! Intelligent and complex, it kept me turning the pages absorbing every word with bated breath. The main characters were simply magnificent. I loved that the author allowed us both pov’s because both women were so different from each other but brilliant in their own way (with Margarethe being quite commanding and Katharine (Sister Augustine) the more softer one).
The story is set in a turbulent time in Berlin, Germany, in the early 30ies. The (love) story of Margarethe and Sister Augustine is wrought with plenty of obstacles and secrets to uncover, both religious and worldly (no spoilers!). A tale of wanting that what’s forbidden and one of self-discovery. Better prepare yourself for a bumpy ride. But oh, it’s so worth it. I highly recommend!
f/f
Themes: Frau Doktor (I can’t help but see Cloris Leachman’s character Frau Blücher. Lol!) , I confess I have a weakness for these strong arrogant aristocratic females in power… and also pretty nuns… and this story has both!!, so it feels like a double whammy, my heart bled for Katherine, Frau Stahle and her German practicality (lol!), yes the ending was a bit abrupt but all was resolved.
5 stars
The story is set in a turbulent time in Berlin, Germany, in the early 30ies. The (love) story of Margarethe and Sister Augustine is wrought with plenty of obstacles and secrets to uncover, both religious and worldly (no spoilers!). A tale of wanting that what’s forbidden and one of self-discovery. Better prepare yourself for a bumpy ride. But oh, it’s so worth it. I highly recommend!
f/f
Themes: Frau Doktor (I can’t help but see Cloris Leachman’s character Frau Blücher. Lol!) , I confess I have a weakness for these strong arrogant aristocratic females in power… and also pretty nuns… and this story has both!!, so it feels like a double whammy, my heart bled for Katherine, Frau Stahle and her German practicality (lol!), yes the ending was a bit abrupt but all was resolved.
5 stars
March 20, 2019
Love of heart over love of body
This was quite an emotional journey.
Usually I grow bored with excessive description to paint the settings, characters, etc. This didn't have those. The author built this world and these people that were so rich and deep through scenes and dialogue. I was completely engrossed.
Not only that, but I also received quite the education. I had to look up definitions for practically every religious word.
But let's talk about the main characters, Margarethe and Sister Augustine. How can people who are so different have so much on common? I really enjoyed the forbidden aspect of their attraction. That is really where this book shined. I could feel the weight of those impending vows just as much as Margarethe.
There were so many obstacles for them to overcome. It seemed impossible and I spent the last 1/3 preparing myself for heartache.
This was a very good book. All of the depth and romance and intimacy you would expect from a high quality story.
I was surprised at how accepting or 'turn a blind eye' everyone was. I would have expected a lot more homophobia and trouble.
And I really wish we would have seen more real 'love of heart' vs. 'love of body' from Margarethe. There were times that if I were Katherine, I would have bolted. Oh, when you are in the throes of romance, all can be forgiven. Ha!
Definitely recommend for people who like romance, historical fiction, religious debate, and motorcars.
This was quite an emotional journey.
Usually I grow bored with excessive description to paint the settings, characters, etc. This didn't have those. The author built this world and these people that were so rich and deep through scenes and dialogue. I was completely engrossed.
Not only that, but I also received quite the education. I had to look up definitions for practically every religious word.
But let's talk about the main characters, Margarethe and Sister Augustine. How can people who are so different have so much on common? I really enjoyed the forbidden aspect of their attraction. That is really where this book shined. I could feel the weight of those impending vows just as much as Margarethe.
There were so many obstacles for them to overcome. It seemed impossible and I spent the last 1/3 preparing myself for heartache.
This was a very good book. All of the depth and romance and intimacy you would expect from a high quality story.
I was surprised at how accepting or 'turn a blind eye' everyone was. I would have expected a lot more homophobia and trouble.
And I really wish we would have seen more real 'love of heart' vs. 'love of body' from Margarethe. There were times that if I were Katherine, I would have bolted. Oh, when you are in the throes of romance, all can be forgiven. Ha!
Definitely recommend for people who like romance, historical fiction, religious debate, and motorcars.
March 12, 2019
I really don't know what to write about this book, as I sit here stunned at the finish. Really everything I want to say is so eloquently written by other reviewers. This book was superbly written, absolutely phenomenal, I am literally standing up and applauding Ms. Graf. I have been drawn to historical fiction since I was a teen, and here I have the opportunity to read about two ladies as the MCs in the turbulent times of 1931? Yes please.
Katherine/Sister Augustine had my empathy from the start. Her story is heart-breaking, yet full of hope as we learn about her utter brilliance. I was SO drawn into the convent descriptions, as that is a life I know nothing about, and I feel the author did great justice in her research. I was fascinated by the first half of the story and the life of the nuns, and where Sister Augustine fit in, and her internal moral battle was one I could greatly relate to. I actually had a dream one night in the middle of this book that involved a convent, that's how vivid the writing is, it sticks in your psyche. Sadly, all I remember of said dream is eating porridge at a long table and everything was grey.......what a waste of a dream in which I am surrounded by ladies! jEEZ.
I did have somewhat of a love/hate relationship with Margarethe. She's a countess, extremely wealthy, has family traditions that go back generations, and has a sense of both ties to her past and present, but also steps out as a modern woman way ahead of her time. She is used to getting what she wants, can be ruthless, cold, calculating and aggressive. Boy can she be aggressive, in many ways. However she also shows her anxieties, her fears, her vulnerabilities. She fights, yet also loves, very passionately. What an intriguing character. I gradually gained a deep respect for her and just cannot state enough how well Ms. Graf wrote her character. I really like being challenged, and she did that.
Was this book translated from German? I just wonder about the lack of warmth between many characters so wonder if something was lost in translation. Where I would assume there would be tender touches, moments of deep love, gazes, etc. there was a huge lack of, esp because this is considered a romance. Maybe this was just the writing style and I've had my head in too many lesfics that I naturally assumed would flow through this. Just something that stuck out for me but didn't turn me off from it, just made me read in a different vein.
Gawd..... I keep reading other people's reviews and feel I am just fumbling over my words here. Just.......read the goddamned book as soon as humanely possible.
Katherine/Sister Augustine had my empathy from the start. Her story is heart-breaking, yet full of hope as we learn about her utter brilliance. I was SO drawn into the convent descriptions, as that is a life I know nothing about, and I feel the author did great justice in her research. I was fascinated by the first half of the story and the life of the nuns, and where Sister Augustine fit in, and her internal moral battle was one I could greatly relate to. I actually had a dream one night in the middle of this book that involved a convent, that's how vivid the writing is, it sticks in your psyche. Sadly, all I remember of said dream is eating porridge at a long table and everything was grey.......what a waste of a dream in which I am surrounded by ladies! jEEZ.
I did have somewhat of a love/hate relationship with Margarethe. She's a countess, extremely wealthy, has family traditions that go back generations, and has a sense of both ties to her past and present, but also steps out as a modern woman way ahead of her time. She is used to getting what she wants, can be ruthless, cold, calculating and aggressive. Boy can she be aggressive, in many ways. However she also shows her anxieties, her fears, her vulnerabilities. She fights, yet also loves, very passionately. What an intriguing character. I gradually gained a deep respect for her and just cannot state enough how well Ms. Graf wrote her character. I really like being challenged, and she did that.
Was this book translated from German? I just wonder about the lack of warmth between many characters so wonder if something was lost in translation. Where I would assume there would be tender touches, moments of deep love, gazes, etc. there was a huge lack of, esp because this is considered a romance. Maybe this was just the writing style and I've had my head in too many lesfics that I naturally assumed would flow through this. Just something that stuck out for me but didn't turn me off from it, just made me read in a different vein.
Gawd..... I keep reading other people's reviews and feel I am just fumbling over my words here. Just.......read the goddamned book as soon as humanely possible.
December 27, 2018
This is a literary style different from the routine books I usually read.
The plot and narrative were charmed to hold my attention as well as encourage my curiosity.
Margaret is so brilliant with her strong ideas and independence. I wasn't attracted to Katerine's character though, but I enjoyed the romance anyway.
A great slow burn and undoubtedly deserving of 5 stars.
The plot and narrative were charmed to hold my attention as well as encourage my curiosity.
Margaret is so brilliant with her strong ideas and independence. I wasn't attracted to Katerine's character though, but I enjoyed the romance anyway.
A great slow burn and undoubtedly deserving of 5 stars.
August 16, 2015
Lyrical and emotionally provocative, Occasions of Sin took place in a very interesting time in history, in Germany, between the two world wars where the Nazis are growing into power.
Beautifully written, the story touches the subject on forbidden love and self-realization. The story alternates between the strong and more dominant voices of Margarethe and the slightly more timid but spiritual Sister Augustine (or Katherine). From the beginning, you can already feel the sizzling attraction albeit subtle between the two main characters, but I loved that the author didn't rush the story and just let it on a slow simmer and build up. I liked the subtlety, the sensitivity, the spiritual and the musical references.
My only complain with this book is the rather abrupt ending. I would wanted to have some glimpse of a true reconciliation Margarethe and Katherine and their life after. Nonetheless, I'm highly recommending this book for somebody who enjoy period pieces and emotional roller-coasters. I'm definitely going to re-read it again soon.
Beautifully written, the story touches the subject on forbidden love and self-realization. The story alternates between the strong and more dominant voices of Margarethe and the slightly more timid but spiritual Sister Augustine (or Katherine). From the beginning, you can already feel the sizzling attraction albeit subtle between the two main characters, but I loved that the author didn't rush the story and just let it on a slow simmer and build up. I liked the subtlety, the sensitivity, the spiritual and the musical references.
My only complain with this book is the rather abrupt ending. I would wanted to have some glimpse of a true reconciliation Margarethe and Katherine and their life after. Nonetheless, I'm highly recommending this book for somebody who enjoy period pieces and emotional roller-coasters. I'm definitely going to re-read it again soon.
May 8, 2019
This book is a love story, a genre I usually avoid. But this book is more, so I'm glad I read it.
Occasions of Sin is the story of a nun trained in medicine and a German lesbian aristocratic surgeon falling in love in the last years of the Weimar Republic. I was pleased to see that it discussed nuns and religious belief in depth, not just for titillation. The Mother Superior of the order is truly spiritual and intelligent. The two women who fall in love are also intelligent. The aristocratic life that Margarethe is tired of is either boring, decadent, or both. She finds Sister Augustine's deep seriousness irresistible.
The book is well-written, and the historical details felt well-researched.
Occasions of Sin is the story of a nun trained in medicine and a German lesbian aristocratic surgeon falling in love in the last years of the Weimar Republic. I was pleased to see that it discussed nuns and religious belief in depth, not just for titillation. The Mother Superior of the order is truly spiritual and intelligent. The two women who fall in love are also intelligent. The aristocratic life that Margarethe is tired of is either boring, decadent, or both. She finds Sister Augustine's deep seriousness irresistible.
The book is well-written, and the historical details felt well-researched.
March 25, 2021
When life is other than one can imagine embrace the occasion no matter the sin.
Margarethe has experienced more in her young life than most. She begins anew at the Cheif of Surgery at St. Hilde. She has gone through 3 head nurses trying to bring a a better standard to the hospital. At Obberoth she with meet the woman who will help her transform the hospital into the best it can be. The transformation she is not prepared for is how Sister Augustine will touch her life in so many ovewhelming ways.
As I tried to write this review I felt like the moment I began it was years ago. The characters are so very real that the journey they take embraces you till the space between book and adventure blur. I felt all the many emotions the story brings to life. I do not want to give the story away but this historical fiction is beyond engaging. It drops you into Europe during the late 1920s/ early 30s while Germany is recovering from the loss of WW1 and all of Europe rebuilds. The characters are so well developed that you are drawn to the pages. I am anxious for the next book in the series. It is so wonderful to have historical fiction told so wel,. Oh and I would be remiss not to mention the music that is threaded throughout the book. A delightful addition.
Margarethe has experienced more in her young life than most. She begins anew at the Cheif of Surgery at St. Hilde. She has gone through 3 head nurses trying to bring a a better standard to the hospital. At Obberoth she with meet the woman who will help her transform the hospital into the best it can be. The transformation she is not prepared for is how Sister Augustine will touch her life in so many ovewhelming ways.
As I tried to write this review I felt like the moment I began it was years ago. The characters are so very real that the journey they take embraces you till the space between book and adventure blur. I felt all the many emotions the story brings to life. I do not want to give the story away but this historical fiction is beyond engaging. It drops you into Europe during the late 1920s/ early 30s while Germany is recovering from the loss of WW1 and all of Europe rebuilds. The characters are so well developed that you are drawn to the pages. I am anxious for the next book in the series. It is so wonderful to have historical fiction told so wel,. Oh and I would be remiss not to mention the music that is threaded throughout the book. A delightful addition.
July 19, 2019
This was exceptionally written. I learned a lot looking up meanings of unfamiliar terms and checking out how things looked back in the 1930s. I was easily immersed in the story.
So, why am I only giving this 4 stars?
For the story itself, I didn't find anything special about it. The solution for the MCs' first main dilemma could obviously be discerned. I rather find some of Margarethe's actions and ultimatum for Sister Augustine deplorable. I mean consummating your love in the back of a car while your driver waits outside? Come on. As for the ultimatum, I didn't like it and Margarethe's attitude when she made it. But hey, maybe you do what you think you have to do. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I was also bothered with the portion where Margarethe seemed devoid of emotions. And while I was amused by the MCs' attraction for each other at first, Margarethe's totalitarian character made me question how Sister Augustine could turn a blind eye to the former's faults.
The ending could've also used more finesse. It was too sudden and lacking in refinements that should've constituted serious one-on-one talks.
So, why am I only giving this 4 stars?
For the story itself, I didn't find anything special about it. The solution for the MCs' first main dilemma could obviously be discerned. I rather find some of Margarethe's actions and ultimatum for Sister Augustine deplorable. I mean consummating your love in the back of a car while your driver waits outside? Come on. As for the ultimatum, I didn't like it and Margarethe's attitude when she made it. But hey, maybe you do what you think you have to do. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I was also bothered with the portion where Margarethe seemed devoid of emotions. And while I was amused by the MCs' attraction for each other at first, Margarethe's totalitarian character made me question how Sister Augustine could turn a blind eye to the former's faults.
The ending could've also used more finesse. It was too sudden and lacking in refinements that should've constituted serious one-on-one talks.
October 18, 2013
The cover is what grabbed me, but the understated and very lovely writing is what made me remain with the book until the very end. At times wonderfully frustrating (our narrator can be biting and stuck in her ways at times), Occasions Of Sin is a subtle storm of emotions, self-denial and self-discovery. Katherine, deeply committed to her faith but yearning in her search for how her life should be lived, is the woman our narrator falls so hard for it throws her carefully maintained life out of whack. Full of lots of music references and a spirituality that is never suffocating, Lena Graf's novel is first class. I fervently hope she writes more soon!
August 6, 2020
I have been putting off this book, knowing that it touches on subjects which I irk...religion and war. How wrong am I! Yes, religion is a major part of the book, but written in simple layman terms which I did not find it too abstract to dislike. I am now onto the next book, Lies of Omission. I am pre-empting war in next, but I have every faith that book is going to be good. Anyone has any idea what is the title of the first book in this series, Passing Rites?
August 30, 2019
Competently written but I didn't care for the characters. I really dislike it when the protagonist is "perfect"--smarter, more beautiful, richer, more talented, titled etc. than anyone else. Margarethe was this way, with a condescending attitude to match. Not a pleasant companion for the reading journey.
January 3, 2019
Pre WWII historical Romance. Graf's novel entraps me and keeps me captive to the very last page. The work is well - written, reasearched and has intriguing characters. You won't regret reading.
February 5, 2019
This was an awesome historical fiction with strong and multi-faceted characters. It discusses a couple of great music pieces and you should definitely listen to them while reading the book!
June 27, 2020
This was exceptionally well-written, and although it contains some of the elements of a stereotypical lesfic (broody powerful woman falls for a softer, more feminine beauty who de-ices her frozen heart), the story of Margarethe and Sister Augustine was utterly unique. I’m even invested in the secondary and tertiary characters. This story is a definite standout that has me anxious to read more.
December 6, 2020
Margarethe's character was overbearing. Though it was said that Katherine is her equal, it doesn't come out well in the narrative. It's hard to root for an unequal relationship in a romance.
September 15, 2018
Margarethe von Stahle is a German aristocrat and a surgeon as well. When she dismisses another head nurse, and visits the convent that her family has supported for centuries, her aunt, the mother superior, recommends Sister Augustine. As the two begin to work together, it becomes clear that the sister is quite skilled, and actually has completed medical school but refuses to practice as a physician. No matter what Margarethe does, Sister Augustine will not reveal her secrets, even when it becomes clear that the two are drawn to one another.
This historical romance takes place from 1930-32 during the Weimar years as Germany was moving toward the Nazi era. It is a rather long book, but the characters and settings are compelling and well researched. Both MCs are engaging. While not a page turner (except perhaps during the last 25%), the book held my interest throughout and I highly recommend it.
This historical romance takes place from 1930-32 during the Weimar years as Germany was moving toward the Nazi era. It is a rather long book, but the characters and settings are compelling and well researched. Both MCs are engaging. While not a page turner (except perhaps during the last 25%), the book held my interest throughout and I highly recommend it.
March 16, 2014
The characters are very likable but the ending was a bit abrupt. I would have liked a more thorough accounting of getting well, resolving the child issue and mending the relationship than just a letter in the epilogue. Otherwise it was an enjoyable story with string characters.
July 29, 2019
I've just finished Books 2 and 3 of this series and it's hard to know where to begin to describe this story. Without hyperbole, it is a sweeping saga of a time in history that is rarely lent to a love story of this magnitude.
It's obvious that the author is a student and lover of history, because there are details in these books that many wouldn't include or find important. This author has done more than mere homework. This story encompasses a couple of decades of German history from the beginning of the Nazi uprising in Germany, up to and through World War II, when all is said and done (Passing Rites Book 4 will, I believe take us to the war and out the other side), and while knowing this, the anticipation is palpable for Book 4 to arrive in a few days.
For me to try and describe the characters would take many paragraphs, and I believe others have done a superb job of doing so ahead of me. They are fully fleshed-out and complete. We see their development and their mindsets change and evolve over the years in which this story takes place.
Once you're involved in this story, it will take you away. A simplistic description, but apt all the same.
It's obvious that the author is a student and lover of history, because there are details in these books that many wouldn't include or find important. This author has done more than mere homework. This story encompasses a couple of decades of German history from the beginning of the Nazi uprising in Germany, up to and through World War II, when all is said and done (Passing Rites Book 4 will, I believe take us to the war and out the other side), and while knowing this, the anticipation is palpable for Book 4 to arrive in a few days.
For me to try and describe the characters would take many paragraphs, and I believe others have done a superb job of doing so ahead of me. They are fully fleshed-out and complete. We see their development and their mindsets change and evolve over the years in which this story takes place.
Once you're involved in this story, it will take you away. A simplistic description, but apt all the same.
April 15, 2021
I enjoyed the second book in the series as thoroughly as I did the first.
While Graf's descriptions of the physical world surrounding Margarethe von Stahl are not as expansive as in the first book (nor do they need to be since the first book really sets the stage for the reader), she continues to richly detail the emotional maelstrom that always seems to underscore Margarethe's life.
Margarethe experiences more loss in this book, but she also finds the woman who may just be the love of her life... Except that woman also happens to be a nun on the cusp of taking her final vows. Margarethe also uncovers a romantic mystery involving her many times over great-grandmother/eponym and another ancient nun at Obberoth, and comes to learn that it closely mirrors her own relationship. And what would an epic, historical love story be without some major termoil, an unexpected pregnancy, and the early rumblings of the Nazi party's uprising??
Graf again does a wonderful job of endearing both Margarethe and Katherine to the reader and putting you right there in the middle of the story, almost as if you were these women. I can't wait to see where the third book takes me!
While Graf's descriptions of the physical world surrounding Margarethe von Stahl are not as expansive as in the first book (nor do they need to be since the first book really sets the stage for the reader), she continues to richly detail the emotional maelstrom that always seems to underscore Margarethe's life.
Margarethe experiences more loss in this book, but she also finds the woman who may just be the love of her life... Except that woman also happens to be a nun on the cusp of taking her final vows. Margarethe also uncovers a romantic mystery involving her many times over great-grandmother/eponym and another ancient nun at Obberoth, and comes to learn that it closely mirrors her own relationship. And what would an epic, historical love story be without some major termoil, an unexpected pregnancy, and the early rumblings of the Nazi party's uprising??
Graf again does a wonderful job of endearing both Margarethe and Katherine to the reader and putting you right there in the middle of the story, almost as if you were these women. I can't wait to see where the third book takes me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2021
Gripping, impressively-researched, beautifully written
Because my book club chose this novel, I read it for the second time. I'm grateful, as it was even more riveted than my first reading. Who can resist the story of a Catholic nun falling in love with an athiest surgeon in pre-WWII Germany? Their lesbian love story parallels another convent love, discovered in surprisingly explicit letters written centuries earlier. Graf gets the convent details right and offers a compelling look at the psychology and social mores of an aristocratic family. Graf's gripping novel left me hungry for more. Luckily, Occasions of Sin is one of a four-part series.
Because my book club chose this novel, I read it for the second time. I'm grateful, as it was even more riveted than my first reading. Who can resist the story of a Catholic nun falling in love with an athiest surgeon in pre-WWII Germany? Their lesbian love story parallels another convent love, discovered in surprisingly explicit letters written centuries earlier. Graf gets the convent details right and offers a compelling look at the psychology and social mores of an aristocratic family. Graf's gripping novel left me hungry for more. Luckily, Occasions of Sin is one of a four-part series.
August 28, 2021
Fascinating character
Rezension aus Deutschland vom 26. Juli 2020
Margarethe von Stahle is a remarkable character, a privileged member of the German great nobility, and exceptionally gifted. Still, hers is not an easy path, being responsible for her ancestral home as well as a convent through heritage, and in her chosen job as a surgeon. In this installment of the Passing Rites series, she finds her match, intellectually and in love. I can highly recommend this very well written, in-depth look at this part of the main character's personal history, set against the well researched historical background of the dawn of the Third Reich.
Rezension aus Deutschland vom 26. Juli 2020
Margarethe von Stahle is a remarkable character, a privileged member of the German great nobility, and exceptionally gifted. Still, hers is not an easy path, being responsible for her ancestral home as well as a convent through heritage, and in her chosen job as a surgeon. In this installment of the Passing Rites series, she finds her match, intellectually and in love. I can highly recommend this very well written, in-depth look at this part of the main character's personal history, set against the well researched historical background of the dawn of the Third Reich.
January 11, 2025
For first 70% this book I thought'd be the one of the best I've read so far as historical fiction go.
I thought it was building up to something but the build up never came for last 30% of the book as it became dull and predictable with much rushed ending.
It also'd 14th century forbidden love scandal and the original manuscript of their shared letters that last for 6 decades I wanted to see more of this plot
In fact this was never used to its full potential
Like Margarethe never discussed with Katherine about this big scandalous love affair, which was a big disappointment.
I thought it was building up to something but the build up never came for last 30% of the book as it became dull and predictable with much rushed ending.
It also'd 14th century forbidden love scandal and the original manuscript of their shared letters that last for 6 decades I wanted to see more of this plot
In fact this was never used to its full potential
Like Margarethe never discussed with Katherine about this big scandalous love affair, which was a big disappointment.
January 28, 2019
This book was so good! I really enjoyed reading it. It's the story Margerethe and Sister Augustine and I fell in love with both characters. The historical aspects. the medicine aspects and the music … everything was well balanced and created its own magic.
I highly recommend this one to everyone who likes historical fiction and a good structured plot with some twists. Can't wait to meet both women again.
I highly recommend this one to everyone who likes historical fiction and a good structured plot with some twists. Can't wait to meet both women again.
June 4, 2019
Intense and interesting of the life of a Nun
I have had Nun friends in the past, but they have never revealed the restrictions they must adhere to from the Reverend Mother. This book kept me turning pages hurriedly for the next chapter. I am now anxious to read book 3, great book.
I have had Nun friends in the past, but they have never revealed the restrictions they must adhere to from the Reverend Mother. This book kept me turning pages hurriedly for the next chapter. I am now anxious to read book 3, great book.
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