The Ruins in Which We Bleed

World War II Historical Fiction #3

by Steve N. Lee

A story of courage and a fight for survival like none you have ever read. Guaranteed!

Inspired by a previously untold true story.

Following the Nazi invasion of Poland, 13-year-old Helena is imprisoned in the Warsaw ghetto, a squalid hellhole rife with disease and starvation. Yet, although the Nazis have destroyed her home, her life, and her future, they haven't destroyed the only thing that truly matters — her family. Helena might be just a child, but she's a fighter, and she'll do whatever it takes to help her loved ones.

Making sacrifices no child should ever have to make, seeing horrors no child should ever have to see, Helena bravely battles on as her world crumbles amid random killings, slave labor, and deportations. And through it all, her compassion helps to protect her family. But then the Nazis unleash new horrors.

With the ghetto a raging sea of flames, explosions, and gunfire, Helena runs for her life only to hurtle straight into an unimaginable hell from which there seems no escape. And the Nazis are closing in. Can her love for her family give her the strength to survive?

Inspired by a heartbreaking true story of unbelievable courage, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit, The Ruins in Which We Bleed reveals that, even in the darkest of times, one person can make a difference through the greatest power of all — love.

Praise for Steve's other Holocaust stories:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “To Dream of Shadows blew me away. It's a riveting novel about the camps that really comes to life with Lee's meticulous research. This novel is a must read.” Suzanne Guida, Goodreads

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I read a lot of WW2 books, but I learned things in this book that haven’t appeared anywhere else.” Sylvia Brewer, Amazon

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Expertly written with pitch-perfect pacing, To Dream of Shadows is jaw-dropping. It’s about finding humanity in the face of staggering inhumanity. It's simply stunning.” Kristine L, Goodreads

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Meticulously researched, beautifully written, and a very compelling read.” Linda Brown, Amazon

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Profoundly moving. I’ve read a lot of books about the holocaust but none like this.” Jody Favre, Amazon

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Heart-wrenching, beautifully written, carefully researched, gripping, and inspiring. The characters jump off the page and you won't want to stop reading.” Carole Rae, Amazon

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This is nothing like anything I have ever read before. From start to finish, it is simply amazing.” Sams_Fireside, Goodreads

Click Buy Now to read the incredible story of an incredible girl and her unbelievable fight for survival.



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Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 12, 2025

About the author

Steve has three passions: anti-heroes, animals, and travel. To date, he's visited 60 countries and has adopted five homeless cats, but he's yet to prowl the streets in the dead of night to beat up bad guys (though he still daydreams about doing so, but who doesn't?).

In pursuit of adventure, he's cage-dived with great white sharks, sparred with a monk at a Shaolin temple, and explored exotic locales such as Machu Picchu, Pompeii, and the Great Wall of China.

Fortunately, his passions fuel his fiction. He loves to pepper his action-packed thrillers with the exotic places he's explored and the unusual encounters he's experienced, while his dog stories glow with the love and companionship that will warm the heart of any animal lover.

More recently, while on his travels, Steve came across two true stories from the Holocaust which moved him so deeply, he has based two novels on them.

He lives in the North of England with his partner, Ania, the great-great-great niece of the 1924 winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, and two stray black cats who visited their garden one day and liked it so much, they moved into the house. Luckily, they graciously allowed Steve and Ania to carry on living there, even allowing Steve to continue paying the mortgage to give him a sense of purpose.

If you love stories of four-legged heroes, tales from histories darkest hour, or books with pulse-pounding action, you'll love Steve's three series. He wrote them for book lovers just like you!
Visit Steve's website: http://stevenleebooks.com/
Follow Steve on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/steve...

Reviews

[Sujoya - theoverbookedbibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐


Having read and enjoyed the author’s previous works of WWII fiction, A Song of Silence and To Dream Of Shadows, I was eager to read Steve N. Lee’s latest offering and I’m glad to say the author does not disappoint.

Set in WWII Warsaw and inspired by true events, The Ruins in Which We Bleed follows thirteen-year-old Helena Sliwicka in the years following the Nazi invasion of Poland. Though the novel begins in 1943 Poland where we meet sixteen-year-old Helena, the narrative moves back and forth between 1939 and 1943 slowly shedding light on the events that impact the lives of Helena and those around her.

The vividly described setting and the author’s meticulous attention to detail transport you to WWII Warsaw and life in the Ghetto with Helena and her family. The descriptions of the living conditions within the Ghetto, the hardships faced by those struggling to survive and the violence inflicted upon them by the Nazis, render this an emotionally intense and heart-wrenching read. The author sensitively portrays the physical, emotional and psychological impact of the horrors Helena experiences and witnesses. I was moved by her attachment to Sparkles and Mati amid the devastation around her. The author beautifully captures Helena’s love for her family, her courage and her resilience in the face of much adversity.

The pacing of the narrative is on the slower side, but the story flows well and I was completely invested in Helena’s journey.

Overall, I found this novel to be a well-written, informative and emotionally impactful work of historical fiction that I would not hesitate to recommend to those who are interested in reading Holocaust fiction inspired by true events. Helena is a memorable protagonist and her story will stay with me for a long time.

Do read the author’s “The Story Behind the Story” wherein he discusses the people, places and events that inspired this work of historical fiction. The author also provides glimpses into his research along with photographs from his travels. This segment (downloadable via the link provided at the end of the novel) certainly enriches the overall reading experience .

I voluntarily reviewed a digital review copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph

[Pretty Peony Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story follows a sixteen-year-old girl named Helena as she and her family fight to survive in war-torn Poland. Helena is an intelligent and thoughtful young girl who cares deeply for her family and friends and does whatever she can to survive and stay hidden from the SS soldiers. When the war moves closer to her family’s hiding place, they had to flee. The struggle between staying in their home and moving to another hidden place was too dangerous, but it was something they had to consider. Helena was also an animal lover who took in a cat and befriended a rat. They became companions that helped her through the hardships of war.

This was a sad but lovely story about a girl who was full of love for her family and animals. I enjoyed learning that even during those difficult times, Helena still found it in her heart to care for animals. I also liked how brave Helena was. She stood up for what she believed and cared so much for her family.

[Mónica BQ]

nope

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

While fiction, this novel is based on the true story of Helena, a teenager in Warsaw, and what she endured during WWII, living in the Ghetto. Life was not easy for anyone, especially a Jewish person, at this time. They are forced to endure tragedies, and so much more.

The story flips between 1942 and 1945. We see Helena with her family when she was 13 and then at 16, when her family's life declines.

While Helena is a teenager, sometimes her actions and words are those of someone younger. Perhaps she was sheltered most of her life, or maybe she was allowed to do what she wanted, but that was not helpful for her in the end. But at the same time, I admired her spirit in the face of this war and how Jewish citizens were treated.

I have enjoyed many of this author's books, and this one is no different. He discovered Helena and created a world for us to fill in the gaps since so little is known about her.

This does not have a happy ending, but how many Holocaust stories do? But it does remind us that all people are human and worth celebrating.

We give this book 4 paws up.

[Carole Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the last two book in this "series" from the author, so I HAD to say yes when asked to check this one out.

The story follows Helena and her family who are Polish Jews. We get to see Helena and her family years previous at the beginning of their imprisonment in the Warsaw ghetto. We also get to see Helena years later as she tries to survive an unimaginable hell where she is trapped. Will her memories and love for her family keep her alive to see another day?

This and the other two of this "series" can be read as a standalone.

Just like the other books, the author really knows how to pull at the heart strings. OOOOOOoooOOOOOooo the feels are strong with this one!

The pacing was a little slow but it was fitting. I'm so glad the author weaved in flashbacks to help keep the story moving.

Poor Helena. Such a sweet girl in a dark and terrible world.

Awww Sparkle, Helena's kitty, and that little rat!!! Adorable!!! They were a nice add to the story. I'm sure one could write an entire paper on the symbolism of Helena taking care of small creatures even though she is struggling to survive herself.

Like I mentioned earlier, the feels are strong with this one. So many tears! Some happy, but mostly sad tears. Make sure to keep a Kleenex on hand because you will need it. However, there is hope and something you can take out of Helena's story. Bravery is just not found on the battlefield. Small acts of rebellion can be brave! Also, just being kind can be a whole rebellion upon itself.

Now don't get me started on the ending! The ending was pretty inevitable but I had so much hope for everyone. Now, there is a ray of hope in the ending (no spoilers from me) so that helped ease the gloom a bit.

All-in-all, add this to the shelf of winners for this author. This story will wrap you up and you won't want to stop reading. I found myself staying up WAY too late to get to the last page because I HAD to know what was going to happen to Helena and everyone else. Prepare to weep, but also be prepared to be inspired. I 100% recommend this book. 5 stars for sure.


Favorite Character(s): Helena and Sparkle
Least Favorite Character(s): All the Nazis of course. Evil, evil.

[Mél · Rating 4 out of 5]

this author does not disappoint !
although to dream of shadows is still my fave one if this ww2 series, this one was amazing as well!

as always his books are not an easy read. the brutality of the circumstances comes across very powerful. especially when it’s based around children and in this one anyways, poor Helena loosing everything she had but also trying to form meaningful connections as she goes on and tries to survive this horrendous time.
& can we talk about sparkles? i cried.
I 100% recommend this book as well as this author if you’re into ww2 stories about survivors of the nazi regime.

[Kristine L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Run, Helena. Run!”

Mama’s terror-stricken shout echoes through the Warsaw sewers as Mama and daughter Helena flee marauding Nazis while the Warsaw ghetto goes up in smoke in this uber engaging and thoroughly absorbing historical fiction read set during World War II.

Having lost her entire family to disease and German brutality when the Sliwickis are forced into the infamous Warsaw ghetto, Helena hesitates when Mama tells her to run. But when the Germans grab Mama, Helena obeys. Running for her life, Helena soon realizes she’s lost everything. And everyone. Everyone.

Except Sparkle the cat.


Making sacrifices no child should ever have to make, seeing horrors no child should ever have to see, sixteen year-old Helena bravely battles on as her world crumbles amid random killings, slave labor, and deportations. And through it all, her compassion helps to protect her family. But then the Nazis unleash new horrors.

Told in flashback fashion, the story follows Helena’s big brother Robert as he storms out of their ghetto apartment after quarreling with Papa about fighting back against the Germans (Robert says Yes. Papa says No). Little brother Jan succumbs to typhus despite Robert and Helena’s best efforts to smuggle medicine into the ghetto for Jan. Papa is deported. Shipped east on a cattle car. Helena and Mama think their work as seamstresses for a German-owned business will shield them from future deportations.

But they’re wrong.

Their only option is to flee into the burnt-out, crumbling and abandoned section of the ghetto and live in “the wild.” So they do.

And Helena finds a little black cat. She names him Sparkle. The feline symbolizes hope and resilience. (There’s even a “cameo” by Polish Jewish pianist, classical composer and Holocaust survivor Władysław Szpilman. Yes, I’ve seen The Pianist. You should, too.)

Later, when their hiding place is discovered, Mama and Helena flee into the sewers. Mama is caught. Helena escapes alone. With the ghetto a raging sea of flames, explosions and gunfire, the building over Helena’s head collapses. She’s trapped underground. Starving, dying of thirst and struggling with solitude and psychosis, Helena begins to contemplate the unimaginable. And wonders if she’s all that different from the monsters responsible for her nightmare. Buried under tons of rubble, Helena also wrestles with questions about humanity, war, friendship, loyalty, and what it means to be human. Can her love for her family give her the strength to survive?

As with Lee’s previous historical fiction novels, The Ruins in Which We Bleed is an adrenaline rush. It grabs you in chapter one and won’t let go until the final page. Meticulously researched and masterfully written, this is a compelling story that deserves a wide audience. That being said, I have some bones to pick with it. Like:

- The title. Ugh.
- Over-use of the verbs smirk, snort, and snicker. Sometimes within a questionable context.
The “after all she’d been through, was this really how it was going to end?” angle is so overworked, it becomes threadbare and tired.
- Likewise, the words “gripping” and “heartbreaking” related to a holocaust novel become worn-out to the point of hackneyed and cliched.
- Irrelevant editorializing crops up occasionally. Like the part about British women who cranked out munitions, etc. during the war being “mere housewives” prior to same. Like that’s not patronizing or anything. Ditto comments like “Maybe war couldn’t always be classed as purely evil; maybe war was occasionally needed for the evolution of society.”

Note that the timeline jumps back and forth between 1940 and 1943 like the Jumping Frog Jubilee at the Calaveras County Fair. So you may want to bring your roller skates. Or a cushion.

That being said, The Ruins in Which We Bleed is an authentic, intense read. Among other things, it’s a compelling story about how one young woman holds on to her humanity, sanity and compassion in the midst of unspeakable cruelty and evil. Turning pages, you feel like you’re right in the thick of things with Helena. Struggling to survive the ghetto and its drive-by shootings, street round-ups, and forced labor. Aryan blackmailers, smuggling, executions, starvation, deprivation, and disease. You can almost touch the blackness of Helena’s underground “grotto.” Smell the smoke. Feel the bleakness of Warsaw’s Serbia prison.

Powerful and poignant, the narrative is raw and it’s real. Haunting. Harrowing. Gut-wrenching.

Just like the people it depicts. And their stories. Stories that deserve to be remembered.

So although I had some issues with the book, they don’t detract from the overall read. Indeed, The Ruins in Which We Bleed is a highly readable story of incredible courage, strength, and resilience. I read it cover-to-cover in one day.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ruins In Which We Bleed by Steve N Lee is a powerful historical novel that I read in just two sittings, pausing only to sleep. It is the third book in the World War II Historical Fiction series but can be read as a stand-alone.
This is a book that will both horrify and inspire you. This is a book that will impact you and not leave you unchanged – because this is a book that is based on real lives.
What the lead character went through seems unbelievable, it seems impossible – but this impossibility is in fact true.
This is a story about a sixteen-year-old who was brave and resourceful. As you read the tale, it is all too easy to forget that she was just sixteen. She was wise beyond her years.
The story is set in the Warsaw ghetto. We hear about life both before and after the Warsaw uprising. We see the importance of family, and of having someone else to live for. Complete isolation would break a spirit. People needed to have someone to live for. “She smiled at the furry little creature. Even in hell, it appeared that friendships could blossom.”
Resistance came in many forms. “This was her sixteenth notebook… The other fifteen had been buried around the ghetto in tins… She couldn’t fire a gun, but she was deadly with a pencil – this was her way of resisting.” Without written records and personal testimonies, how would the world know? “Resisting isn’t only about picking up a gun but about refusing to simply lie down and die… We are resisting… because we’re still here.” There was a strong spirit to survive. “She’d vowed to survive to tell the world.”
Life in the Warsaw ghetto was horrific. Steve N Lee has written sensitively, whilst still relaying the horrors to the reader. “What kind of a world had they built where it was normal for streets to be littered with the corpses of emaciated children?”
Ironically just a few streets away, life was good. “She stared. At freedom. At normality. At a world where people were simply people living life. It was the first time she’d seen anything but overcrowded streets and filthy tenements for a getting on for a year.” The simplicity and beauty of normal life contrasted sharply with the streets of hell which was the ghetto.
For some, they managed to retain their dignity, their humanity, and their compassion. Others within the ghetto were reduced to baseness as they were purely out for themselves.
Sparkle, the kitty, was a symbol of hope, of humanity, of a brighter tomorrow.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. The cruelty of the Nazis came through. The goodness and kindness of those who had little also shone through.
This is a horrifying but necessary read. It must be read in memory of the six million innocents who perished, and of those who survived. The world needs to know. We must never forget.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Joan Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ruins in Which We Bleed is written by Steve N Lee and is the third novel in his Holocaust series - they are all inspired by true stories.
In this novel, Helena (a 16 year old girl) and her mother are trapped in a Warsaw Jewish ghetto. during World War 2 and the invasion of Poland by the Nazis. Each page of the novel describes the suffering, starvation and fear that they go through on a daily basis. The ghetto is a hell hole and people struggle to survive. Helena’s story is heartbreaking as she has lost her teenage years, family, friends and neighbours just because as they are Jewish, the Nazi see them as lesser, worthless beings.
I can’t say I enjoyed this book because the storyline is so sad, showing how low humanity is prepared to go to “win”. Each page reveals the Nazi’s hatred and determination to wipe out fellow human beings whilst the ghetto residents are struggling just to survive whilst still maintaining their humanity and caring for others.
I couldn’t read more than a chapter at a time as the storyline is relentless. The fact that that this is based on a true story made it even harder to get through. Helena’s devotion to Sparkle and the baby boy in the underground shelter, for example, showed on the one hand how the characters retained their humanity and caring selves but also how sometimes they had to do something they never imagined they would have to do in order to survive the nightmare that had become their life.
The book is beautifully written. The author doesn’t focus on describing the blood and gore, he lets the reader think about it by, for example, only briefly mentioning someone falling from a roof when set alight. He focuses on the characters and how their characters are shaped as they struggle to survive. The characters aren’t relatable as none of us will (hopefully) ever go through anything as traumatic as living/ existing in a ghetto but they do draw the reader in to feel for them and hope that life gets better in the next few pages of the book.
I didn’t “enjoy” this book or read it in one sitting but that is because the storyline, whilst perfectly paced and planned out, is just so heartbreakingly sad. There are no real winners in war, there is just death and destruction and even though Helena’s story is set (and the real life version took place) over 80 years ago, it still feels like I was reading about her life in real time and it was happening as I read the book.
I was lucky enough to be gifted this novel but I will download the two other novels in the series to read over the summer (they are currently available on Kindle Unlimited).

[OpenBookSociety.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://openbooksociety.com/article/t...

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra

The Ruins in Which We Bleed is a poignant story of one thirteen-year-old girl’s drive to survive during the Nazi invasion of Poland. I have not read any previous books in this series or any other book written by Steven N. Lee but I can say without a doubt is that I shall go back and read the other two books in this series.

The novel is essentially written in two time periods -> beginning in 1943 Poland where the reader is introduced to sixteen-year-old Helena. We are then moving back and forth between 1939 and 1943 and learning of all the events that impact the lives of Helena and everyone around her.

I found the descriptions of life and the hardships the family had to endure in the Ghetto vivid, so much so, that I felt transported to that time and location. As family members passed or disappeared, Helena and her mother continued to fight for their lives and their family. The struggles were gut wrenching.

To quote another reviewer as I could not have said it better myself… “…The author sensitively portrays the physical, emotional and psychological impact of the horrors Helena experiences and witnesses. I was moved by her attachment to Sparkles and Mati amid the devastation around her. The author beautifully captures Helena’s love for her family, her courage and her resilience in the face of much adversity.”

Sparkles and Mati, a cat and a mouse respectively, were vital (from my perspective) for Helene’s survival. Her love for all animals and her drive to see that they survived these atrocities that were occurring all around them moved me. They also played a vital role in Helena’s survival as well.

I also obtained the author’s “The Story Behind the Story”, which provided more of an in-depth perspective of the people, places and the varied events that occurred during this time period and provided the impetus for this book. A must read in my opinion.

All I can say is “wow”. What a story. What a life Helena led. A very emotional read. The author did a great job in bringing the emotional journey out in the writing so that this reader was very much impacted by the horrors that Helena had to live through. If nothing else, I am now more inclined than ever to read the other books in this series. Stories detailing the horrific treatment of people during the war need to be written and read – we must never forget. We must also hope that our humanity never stoops to such a low level again!

[Mary E Trimble · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ruins in Which We Bleed by Steve N. Lee, is the third book of the “World War II Historical Fiction” series. This particular account of struggle for survival was inspired by a previously untold true story.

The narrative begins in 1943 when Helena Silwicka turns sixteen. She lives with her parents and two brothers, one older, one younger. Following the 1939 Nazi invasion of Poland, Jewish families were forced to abandon their homes and were imprisoned in Warsaw ghettos. The Silwickas live in a crowded apartment with an aunt. The family witnesses horror after horror, must scavenge for food, and live in constant fear of Nazi cruelty. They do whatever is necessary to keep their family together.

Mere survival is a daily challenge. People are randomly killed in the streets, food is not only scarce but outrageously expensive. Many stores are off-limits to Jews. Schools are closed to Jews. Nazis consistently set homes and apartment buildings on fire, then round up the homeless, pack them into cattle cars and stuff them into trains. To where? There are so many unknowns. The family lives in constant fear— fear of separation, fear for their lives.

Helena makes a little money sewing armbands that all Jews are required to wear: a white armband affixed with a blue six-sided star, worn over the right upper sleeve of one's outer garments.

When the unthinkable happens, Helena is thrown into an unimaginable situation. She fights on despite horror after horror threatening her mere survival. She tries to maintain a positive attitude, to show gratitude for seemingly inconsequential “gifts.”

The story toggles between 1940-1941 to 1943. This family’s struggle was typical for Jews under Nazi rule in Poland and Germany.

The Ruins in Which We Bleed is a well written story of the atrocities of war. There have been numerous accounts of this grim history, and the author does a good job of bringing this story of horror to light. This was a typical family, which he clearly shows. Lee’s descriptions of life during that time period is believable, as is his grasp of life under Nazi rule. It’s an enlightening story based on what we know to be true.

When reading accounts such as this, I wonder how Jews could have let this happen? How could their leaders let the Nazis take over, round up their country’s citizens, put them in prisons, kill men, women and children? Did the people have blind faith in their leaders? Did it start small, then grow into the atrocity it became? Then, I wonder, could such evil happen here?

[Carol-ann Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another absolutely incredible read by Steve N Lee!

I have also read the other two books in this series (which can also be read standalone) and I don't know how he does it but he just captures you from page 1. I ended up being late back from my lunch as I just had to find out what happened with the Nazis/ freedom fighters in that first chapter!

I genuinely have nothing to fault about this book- it has incredible characters; makes you have a strong hatred for the Nazis, you have a multitude of emotions (fear, anger, sadness, joy).
The story feels almost impossible surely a young girl couldn't have went through this??? Steve is inspired by true events which makes it all just feel so much more real and really drives the emotions I read above.

Helena is inspiring and I just love her love for animals with little sparkle being her priority and then the rat she rescued also :(

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and specifically if you like to read those from WW2 then this book (and the others) are for you.

Thanks again Steve please never stop writing these books!

[Nel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Books such as these are always so important, especially as we live through these very uncertain times. We can not forget history, lest it repeats itself.

This novel is no exception. Inspired by a true story, Steve N. Lee has shared important events that were all too common during the Holocaust. In this particular story, 13-year-old Helena is attempting to survive a world that is literally crumbling around her. Her courage and determination are so inspiring as she attempts to survive the hatred aimed at her and her people.

I appreciated that this novel could be read by adults and teens alike, as it is crucial that they, too, learn about the myriad of events that occurred in the lead-in to this unimaginable human atrocity.

Many thanks to Mr. Lee for providing me with this gifted review e-copy.

For more of my reviews, please check out my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread.

[Sams_Fireside · Rating 5 out of 5]

'No shouting cracked the silence; no flashlights sliced the darkness'.

Steve's writing is incredible. I didn't particularly want to be in Helena's shoes, as slowly, her family disappears, and she has no alternative other than to face the horrors that the Germans are inflicting, all alone. Yet, I had no choice. Such is the power of the words which Steve writes and the in-depth descriptions he portrays of the sufferings Helena experiences, I was right there with her. Every step of the way.

Every time I read a book like this, one which is inspired by true events and particularly one set during WWII, I often have to stop reading, and reflect that all this s**t really happened and how courageous and resilient people absolutely had to be.

So much research has gone into Helena's story and Steve has done an amazing job of telling her story and ensuring that no matter how much time has passed, they have not been forgotten.

Thank you to Steve N. Lee for the opportunity to read and review The Ruins in Which We Bleed.

[Christy fictional_traits · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Hide. They had to hide'.

It's 1943 and 16 year old Helena and her mother are living like rats in an abandoned building in the Polish ghettos of the Nazi's making. Sleeping by day and scavenging by night, their world is literally rocked one day when a partisan uprising causes havoc but also blooms hope for the scattered, hidden Jews still hiding for fear of deportation. Is this the beginning of the end of years of terror?

'The Ruins in Which We Bleed' is part 3 of a series but can be read as a stand alone. Told in two different timelines, the story starts with Helena and her mother just trying to live another day but the reader is occasionally taken back to life at the beginning of the war and all the events her family faced up until this point. Steve N Lee has clearly done a lot of research to bring the terrors and paranoia of living in the ghetto to life. Inspired by a true story, Lee's tone for Helena does reflect that of a teenager. The story also reflects on the difficulty of trying to maintain a sense of humanity, balanced with an innate desire to survive.

I enjoy continuing to learn more about WW2 and all the small heroes and acts of bravery that defied their circumstances. This book adds to that.

'Helena's choice, like that of most of the ghetto residents, was to try and save those she could - her loved ones'.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helena was thirteen years old when the German army invaded Warsaw. She lived with her parents and brothers and at first they all felt that they would be safe despite being Jewish. As life began to change around them, they realized that there was no safety for them and they ended up in the Warsaw ghetto. As life in the ghetto began to deteriorate, Helena is faced with terrors that no young girl should have to face and things just keep getting worse for her. Parts of this book were so difficult to read and brought tears to my eyes - imaging what she went through was almost impossible but she continued to look for the goodness in life. I really can't tell you much about her bravery or what happened to her without the possibility of a spoiler. What I will say is that she faced horrific events but knew that she had to stay brave to help her loved ones.

This unbelievable true story is a deep look at the courage and resilience that Helena showed throughout her quest to stay hidden from the Gestapo. It shows that no matter what is going on in the world, one person CAN make a difference. Helena is a tenacious young lady that I won't soon forget.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful and moving story, one that you'll find brings tears to your eyes as often as it warms your heart. Lee does an amazing job bringing the historical setting to life, in a way that truly wraps you in the story. Although this is fiction, you can tell that extensive research was done, as the ring of truth shines through the events. Things do get very dark. Anyone remotely familiar with what happened in Poland during WWII will understand why without me risking any spoilers. At the same time, things are balanced with a thread of hope and the resilience of the human spirit. Two final things - take your time reading this, take breaks for your mental health if needed, and bring a box of tissues and your favorite warm drink. But, if you enjoy moving WWII fiction based on true stories, then this needs to go straight to the top of your TBR pile!

[Charlotte Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A previously untold true story about WWII and living through the horrors of the Nazi rule as a Jew. I was hooked from the very beginning. I have read many WWII books but this one hit me different. This is a story that, now that I have finished the book, I cannot move past. I am still thinking about all that Helena lived through. I cannot imagine her life but am in awe of the strength that she was able to show by holding onto the love her family.

The author, Steve N Lee, wrote a book of horrors with so much care and detail that I felt like I was right there with Helena. I lived her life as she did. Her fears, her successes, and most of all the love that she held onto all came to life as I read her story. I am not sure I have the words to describe how amazing this book is. Any WWII, Holocaust reader should pick up a copy to read.

[Martin Pingree · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of unimaginable courage and resilience, this unforgettable novel is inspired by a previously untold true story of survival during one of history’s darkest chapters.

After the Nazi invasion of Poland, 13-year-old Helena is forced into the Warsaw Ghetto—a nightmarish world of disease, starvation, and despair. Her home has been destroyed, her future stolen, but one thing remains: her unwavering love for her family. Though still a child, Helena becomes their fierce protector, willing to endure unthinkable sacrifices to keep them alive.

Told with raw emotion and heart-stopping intensity, this is a powerful tribute to the human spirit in the face of evil. Helena’s story is one you will never forget—a breathtaking testament to love, hope, and the will to endure. Guaranteed to leave a lasting mark on your heart.

[Juline Felbel · Rating 5 out of 5]

💭 Thank you so much for the opportunity to read a copy of your brilliant book in exchange for my honest review. The Ruins in Which We Bleed was thought-provoking, heartbreaking, and deeply inspiring.

I found myself rooting for Helena every step of the way. Her strength, courage, and unwavering determination in the face of unthinkable horror was nothing short of heroic.

If you’re a fan of historical fiction—especially stories that spotlight resilience and the human spirit—this one is a must-read.

[Coffee & books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written, fascinating and heartbreaking. The story is so unusual and based on real life events, it is definitely worth reading.

The ending is perfect because it follows the real story and I think that is the most important thing with books like this, fictional accounts of real people.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though I have read a lot about the holocaust, I found much I had not known about the Warsaw Ghetto. Steve did a great job pulling me into this world and the people in it.
Incredible storytelling, I did not want to put it down. Highly recommended.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough in praise of this aurhor! He has a gift. I felt as though I was with Helena through her story. Highly recommended.

[Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just WOW ... what a story that is inspired by real events and people but with elements that have been fictionalised which, in this case, is because the information doesn't exist anymore.

I have read a couple of Steve's books before, To Dream of Shadows and A Song of Silence, and was blown away by them both and this was no different.

It invoked so many emotions for me that not many books have done from fear, dread, horror but also love, loyalty bravery and hope. It's heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure. Helena is a remarkable teenager and one I'm sure her family would have been proud of. Her tenacity, bravery and spirit were beyond her years.

Brilliant story, excellently written, this is one story that should be made into a film as, in my humble opinion, Helena's story rivals that of Anne Frank's and if I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.

Many thanks must go to the author, Steve N Lee, for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this remarkable book.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't often leave reviews, but having just finished this book I felt I needed to. It's one of those books that once you start reading it, you don't want to put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it.

[Julie Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of this story and yes it was disturbing but an important tale to tell.

It centres on Helena in Poland during WW2 and being Jewish makes her a non-human according to Nazi law so is in hiding.

What I found appalling was the arrogant cruelty and sadism within the Nazi mind set and the atrocities committed and thought as acceptable behaviour.

This was a well-written and emotional tale of endurance and determination, however, I can't say how I feel because I don't give spoilers.

Nothing from this time in history should be forgotten, but whether lessons are learned is another matter - if we look at how such events continue to occur.

Harrowing, engaging and worth reading.

[Francis Dohm · Rating 5 out of 5]

True to the horrors of war. Well written. Nothing but the best from this author in depth research to bring the story to print.

[Andra Weis · Rating 5 out of 5]

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Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra

The Ruins in Which We Bleed is a poignant story of one thirteen-year-old girl’s drive to survive during the Nazi invasion of Poland. I have not read any previous books in this series or any other book written by Steven N. Lee but I can say without a doubt is that I shall go back and read the other two books in this series.

The novel is essentially written in two time periods -> beginning in 1943 Poland where the reader is introduced to sixteen-year-old Helena. We are then moving back and forth between 1939 and 1943 and learning of all the events that impact the lives of Helena and everyone around her.

I found the descriptions of life and the hardships the family had to endure in the Ghetto vivid, so much so, that I felt transported to that time and location. As family members passed or disappeared, Helena and her mother continued to fight for their lives and their family. The struggles were gut wrenching.

To quote another reviewer as I could not have said it better myself… “…The author sensitively portrays the physical, emotional and psychological impact of the horrors Helena experiences and witnesses. I was moved by her attachment to Sparkles and Mati amid the devastation around her. The author beautifully captures Helena’s love for her family, her courage and her resilience in the face of much adversity.”

Sparkles and Mati, a cat and a mouse respectively, were vital (from my perspective) for Helene’s survival. Her love for all animals and her drive to see that they survived these atrocities that were occurring all around them moved me. They also played a vital role in Helena’s survival as well.

I also obtained the author’s “The Story Behind the Story”, which provided more of an in-depth perspective of the people, places and the varied events that occurred during this time period and provided the impetus for this book. A must read in my opinion.

All I can say is “wow”. What a story. What a life Helena led. A very emotional read. The author did a great job in bringing the emotional journey out in the writing so that this reader was very much impacted by the horrors that Helena had to live through. If nothing else, I am now more inclined than ever to read the other books in this series. Stories detailing the horrific treatment of people during the war need to be written and read – we must never forget. We must also hope that our humanity never stoops to such a low level again!