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Passing Rites #4
Acts of Contrition
World War II has finally come to an end and Berlin has fallen. Nearly everything Margarethe von Stahle has sworn to protect has been lost. After being brutally abused by occupying Russian soldiers, Margarethe must rely on the kindness of her friends to survive. Fortunately, the American Army has brought her former protege, Sarah Weber, back to Berlin. As Margarethe confronts painful events that occurred during the war, she must learn both to forgive and be forgiven.
- GenresHistoricalWarDrama
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2019
8 people are currently reading
61 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 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 5, 2019
I have been trying to write this review for a while and I have been failing for a while. Not because I was not fully immersed in the story and not because I was not engrossed in every moment of our protagonist’s experience…because I was both of these things and so much more.
When an author can leave their reader dumbfounded and at a loss for words, well, I think that speaks volumes. When I first read Occasions of Sin (book 2, but the first release in the Passing Rites series), I had the same reaction. I think my first review after completing it was simply a ‘Wow’ and a ‘thank you’ to the person who recommended it to me. I eventually strung some more words together, but really, nothing I say or write in a review will ever do justice for the actual experience I had reading each book in this series.
In this third release, Margarethe von Stahle is facing the reality of her life in Berlin during the immediate aftermath of WWII. Her many losses and devastating experiences are a heartbreaking reminder of the realities of war. No one is safe regardless of their station in life and Graf ensures we understand that through raw and historically accurate detail. Nothing is glossed over to spare our precious hearts and I appreciate that more than anything. When I pick up a book…I want to feel, even if it tears at my soul, and I want to learn.
As Corrie stated (and I highly recommend reading her review because she’s much more eloquent than I), these are the gifts provided by a great author. Graf is definitely an experience that I easily recommend to anyone.
I should also note that this book is not all doom and gloom. At the heart of it, Acts of Contrition is a love story; it is about picking one’s self up out of the rubble and finding a way to move forward.
Acts of Contrition is the third release in the Passing Rites series and is absolutely a welcome addition. That noted, Occasions of Sin and Lies of Omission should definitely be read before diving into AOC. A prequel will be released at a later time…and I, for one, cannot f’ing wait.
When an author can leave their reader dumbfounded and at a loss for words, well, I think that speaks volumes. When I first read Occasions of Sin (book 2, but the first release in the Passing Rites series), I had the same reaction. I think my first review after completing it was simply a ‘Wow’ and a ‘thank you’ to the person who recommended it to me. I eventually strung some more words together, but really, nothing I say or write in a review will ever do justice for the actual experience I had reading each book in this series.
In this third release, Margarethe von Stahle is facing the reality of her life in Berlin during the immediate aftermath of WWII. Her many losses and devastating experiences are a heartbreaking reminder of the realities of war. No one is safe regardless of their station in life and Graf ensures we understand that through raw and historically accurate detail. Nothing is glossed over to spare our precious hearts and I appreciate that more than anything. When I pick up a book…I want to feel, even if it tears at my soul, and I want to learn.
As Corrie stated (and I highly recommend reading her review because she’s much more eloquent than I), these are the gifts provided by a great author. Graf is definitely an experience that I easily recommend to anyone.
I should also note that this book is not all doom and gloom. At the heart of it, Acts of Contrition is a love story; it is about picking one’s self up out of the rubble and finding a way to move forward.
Acts of Contrition is the third release in the Passing Rites series and is absolutely a welcome addition. That noted, Occasions of Sin and Lies of Omission should definitely be read before diving into AOC. A prequel will be released at a later time…and I, for one, cannot f’ing wait.
April 22, 2019
Actual conversation:
Me: I definitely need to make a gin martini while I read the last few chapters of this book. *gets up to make one*...
Spouse: OK, but you do realize it is 2:30pm.
Me: Doesn't matter. Margarethe is worth it. Ending this series is an event to be remembered. *rummages around.....* Babes, please tell me we have gin.
Spouse: I don't know, that's your thing.
Me: Oh god, there is no gin and it is Easter wknd. The stores are closed! NOOO!
Spouse: Just make a vodka martini.
Me: VODKA? Margarethe doesn't drink vodka, she drinks gin! Throughout this entire series, gin martinis get a LOT of play! IT NEEDS TO BE GIN!
Spouse: What are you even talking about? No one will know.
Me: I WILL KNOW!! This is important!
Spouse: So I don't need to read the series now?
Me: Oh......shit.
Thankfully I found a forgotten bottle way at the back of the cabinet and had a delicious gin martini with a twist whilst finishing this epic and amazing series. Do I need to even say anything more?
....Apparently so. I am assuming if you are reading this review, you have read the first two books, so you may understand how thunderstruck I am right now. Literally, a 2x4 landed on my heart many a time over the last few days. I had to put it down to remember to breathe, drink, then continue. I am somewhat in mourning as well because I think this is the end of the series, at least in a time succession, and though I am very satisfied with how it ended, I fully accept that I have fallen hard for Margarethe von Stahle.
I shall leave you with one of my many favourite quotes by the complex yet endearing Margarethe: "I am always moved and anxious in such moments, especially when I am told how strong I am, how good, how beautiful. Inevitably, I am left to wonder who is being described."
----Addendum, because I did not give proper high fives to the author the first time around: I am still in awe of the amount of research Ms. Graf did for this series, and that her words and creation of characters made me feel such raw, intense emotions, both positive and negative. Not only was the story incredibly rich but the details flawless, and I learned stuff! What a combination! Thank you Ms. Graf, I hereby promise to read absolutely everything else you write in the future.
Me: I definitely need to make a gin martini while I read the last few chapters of this book. *gets up to make one*...
Spouse: OK, but you do realize it is 2:30pm.
Me: Doesn't matter. Margarethe is worth it. Ending this series is an event to be remembered. *rummages around.....* Babes, please tell me we have gin.
Spouse: I don't know, that's your thing.
Me: Oh god, there is no gin and it is Easter wknd. The stores are closed! NOOO!
Spouse: Just make a vodka martini.
Me: VODKA? Margarethe doesn't drink vodka, she drinks gin! Throughout this entire series, gin martinis get a LOT of play! IT NEEDS TO BE GIN!
Spouse: What are you even talking about? No one will know.
Me: I WILL KNOW!! This is important!
Spouse: So I don't need to read the series now?
Me: Oh......shit.
Thankfully I found a forgotten bottle way at the back of the cabinet and had a delicious gin martini with a twist whilst finishing this epic and amazing series. Do I need to even say anything more?
....Apparently so. I am assuming if you are reading this review, you have read the first two books, so you may understand how thunderstruck I am right now. Literally, a 2x4 landed on my heart many a time over the last few days. I had to put it down to remember to breathe, drink, then continue. I am somewhat in mourning as well because I think this is the end of the series, at least in a time succession, and though I am very satisfied with how it ended, I fully accept that I have fallen hard for Margarethe von Stahle.
I shall leave you with one of my many favourite quotes by the complex yet endearing Margarethe: "I am always moved and anxious in such moments, especially when I am told how strong I am, how good, how beautiful. Inevitably, I am left to wonder who is being described."
----Addendum, because I did not give proper high fives to the author the first time around: I am still in awe of the amount of research Ms. Graf did for this series, and that her words and creation of characters made me feel such raw, intense emotions, both positive and negative. Not only was the story incredibly rich but the details flawless, and I learned stuff! What a combination! Thank you Ms. Graf, I hereby promise to read absolutely everything else you write in the future.
February 16, 2019
The problem with reading historical fiction is that you eventually run up against...history. Especially one set in a time as particularly brutal and horrific as World War II. When I first found out that the sequel to Occasions of Sin (set in the 1930s Germany) was out, it piqued my interest right away as that would mean the author is taking the characters through even more interesting times. The way I imagined things (or the way I wanted it to happen) was for our characters to go through the horrors of war and capitulation and somehow emerge in one piece, at least, physically. A happy-ever-after, after WWII. Its not impossible.. Unrealistic, maybe. Overly optimistic, I guess. But not impossible, right? Alas, the author doesn't write fairy tales.
It's hard to review this book without spoilers. And harder still not to spoil things for readers who haven't read the first two books. So if you love lush historical fiction with a great f/f romance and amazing characterizations, I highly recommend the series. Start with the first book Occasions of Sin. You'll be mesmerized.
When I reached the end of the second book (Lies of Omission), I inadvertently swiped past the last page on my e-reader and came face to face with the blurb for the third. Its fairly vague but there is an ominous hint. My stomach fell out once my brain realized what my eyes just read. Would the author really do that? As in, OMG, what if she does? I can't describe the feeling that came over me. I felt faint. I felt like throwing up. Did I read that blurb right? And since when have I let myself be affected so much by a blurb, of all things. After being fully immersed in and falling deeply in love with the characters of the book, I was devastated. It felt like a sucker punch. And I felt the effects for days.
I actually considered not reading the third book. I thought It would be much too painful and I didn't think my heart would survive it. I figured that way I could have my HEA and not need to know what happens next. I'll rest happy in my ignorant bliss. 😄
But I got an ARC of the book sitting in my e-reader, beckoning. After a few weeks, when my shattered heart had grown back together gradually from happier reads, I couldn't resist taking a peek. And like the first two books, once you start, you can't stop.
It's nearly impossible for a review to do justice to a book of this depth and breadth. The book spans the period from the last days of the Russian push into Berlin and the reconstruction efforts by the Americans and the British. The point of view alternates between Margarethe and her American protégé, Sarah, who has returned to Berlin as part of the American mission. They're ably supported by a varied and colorful cast of characters, some old, some new, all sharply-drawn and so memorable. The book brings attention to one of the least talked about atrocities of WWII, the mass rapes of women by victorious Russian soldiers. By dealing with it in the context of one woman's experience, the book sought to treat the subject with understanding and respect, not diminishing or over emphasizing it in view of all the horrors the war engendered.
As the blurb states, the book is mainly about how our favorite characters cope with life-altering loss, guilt and shame. There's a lot of that to go around in a period as cataclysmic as the fall of Berlin. Yet, contrary to my initial fears and expectations, the book was never a depressing read. Not that I expected Margarethe, the famously logical, practical and infinitely proud aristocrat to wallow in self-pity or debilitating PTSD for long. In fact, some of her "darker" moments are also some of the most poignant and interesting in the book. I loved how the author used Margarethe's "dreams" to let her reconnect with her lost loved ones while at the same time, letting us readers revisit our favorite characters from the earlier books.
I was initially not a big fan of the romance. Let's face it, it's hard to let go of an old love. But on my second reading a couple of months later, (when I think I'd finally accepted the reality of the situation, lol. Time heals all wounds apparently, even the virtual ones. 😉), I was a lot more emotionally invested in Sarah's plight. There are elements of age-gap, mentor-mentee, hero-worship in the relationship. And then there's Margarethe's PTSD and gigantic ego to overcome. An impossible task for any one person to deal with in the midst of so much work that needs to be done to pull Berlin back from the dead. Fortunately, a number of strong, albeit flawed female characters step up to help out (which is mostly to sort Margarethe out 😉). Love them or hate them, big roles or small, these ladies all make their presence felt and the book is so much richer for them.
5 stars
ARC from the author.
It's hard to review this book without spoilers. And harder still not to spoil things for readers who haven't read the first two books. So if you love lush historical fiction with a great f/f romance and amazing characterizations, I highly recommend the series. Start with the first book Occasions of Sin. You'll be mesmerized.
When I reached the end of the second book (Lies of Omission), I inadvertently swiped past the last page on my e-reader and came face to face with the blurb for the third. Its fairly vague but there is an ominous hint. My stomach fell out once my brain realized what my eyes just read. Would the author really do that? As in, OMG, what if she does? I can't describe the feeling that came over me. I felt faint. I felt like throwing up. Did I read that blurb right? And since when have I let myself be affected so much by a blurb, of all things. After being fully immersed in and falling deeply in love with the characters of the book, I was devastated. It felt like a sucker punch. And I felt the effects for days.
I actually considered not reading the third book. I thought It would be much too painful and I didn't think my heart would survive it. I figured that way I could have my HEA and not need to know what happens next. I'll rest happy in my ignorant bliss. 😄
But I got an ARC of the book sitting in my e-reader, beckoning. After a few weeks, when my shattered heart had grown back together gradually from happier reads, I couldn't resist taking a peek. And like the first two books, once you start, you can't stop.
It's nearly impossible for a review to do justice to a book of this depth and breadth. The book spans the period from the last days of the Russian push into Berlin and the reconstruction efforts by the Americans and the British. The point of view alternates between Margarethe and her American protégé, Sarah, who has returned to Berlin as part of the American mission. They're ably supported by a varied and colorful cast of characters, some old, some new, all sharply-drawn and so memorable. The book brings attention to one of the least talked about atrocities of WWII, the mass rapes of women by victorious Russian soldiers. By dealing with it in the context of one woman's experience, the book sought to treat the subject with understanding and respect, not diminishing or over emphasizing it in view of all the horrors the war engendered.
As the blurb states, the book is mainly about how our favorite characters cope with life-altering loss, guilt and shame. There's a lot of that to go around in a period as cataclysmic as the fall of Berlin. Yet, contrary to my initial fears and expectations, the book was never a depressing read. Not that I expected Margarethe, the famously logical, practical and infinitely proud aristocrat to wallow in self-pity or debilitating PTSD for long. In fact, some of her "darker" moments are also some of the most poignant and interesting in the book. I loved how the author used Margarethe's "dreams" to let her reconnect with her lost loved ones while at the same time, letting us readers revisit our favorite characters from the earlier books.
I was initially not a big fan of the romance. Let's face it, it's hard to let go of an old love. But on my second reading a couple of months later, (when I think I'd finally accepted the reality of the situation, lol. Time heals all wounds apparently, even the virtual ones. 😉), I was a lot more emotionally invested in Sarah's plight. There are elements of age-gap, mentor-mentee, hero-worship in the relationship. And then there's Margarethe's PTSD and gigantic ego to overcome. An impossible task for any one person to deal with in the midst of so much work that needs to be done to pull Berlin back from the dead. Fortunately, a number of strong, albeit flawed female characters step up to help out (which is mostly to sort Margarethe out 😉). Love them or hate them, big roles or small, these ladies all make their presence felt and the book is so much richer for them.
5 stars
ARC from the author.
November 22, 2018
When Elena Graf sends you an advanced copy of her latest novel in the Passing Rites series I know that whilst I am doing a little happy dance in front of the computer, she will – as soon as I start reading - rip out my heart, stomp on it a few times and then meticulously put it back together again. And when you come out the other end that poor abused organ feels lighter and fuller at the same time. That is what her writing does to me. You just cannot read Acts of Contrition and not be moved to the core. Graf is one of the few authors I would willingly crawl through a sea of broken glass just to silently bleed in her shadow. Dramatic I know, but she is that magnificent.
What I love first and foremost about the series is the formidable Countess Stahle, or Margarethe von Stahle, Reichsgräfin von Langenberg-Edelheim, Gräfin von u. zu Raithschau, Baronin von Leichthal if you want to be precise. She is strong, proud, brilliantly gifted, stubborn, loyal, old school, German to the core and one of the best characters I’ve come across in a long time. Through the skill of the author Margarethe (as well as the others) has stepped off the pages and feels very much alive to me. Like I could go and look her up on Wikipedia. I am comforted in the knowledge that Graf is working on a prequel so I don’t have to say goodbye just yet.
Now I want to tell you so much about the book, but after seeing the blurb has been kept purposely vague I’m certain I can’t spill any beans. It would spoil the experience. Just know that it is an epic journey (if you haven’t read Occasions of Sin and Lies of Omission, you need to go and do that first). There is unspeakable loss, trauma and hardship but also hope and love and resilience. The aftermath of World War II and the effect it had on the German population is not a story portrayed too often. You know what they say, history is recorded through the eyes of the victor. Elena Graf gives a chilling account of what happened in Berlin with great historical accuracy and detail. I’ve learned a lot and I’m always thankful when an author can give me that gift.
Oh and I almost forgot to tell you about the music. Music is running through the series as a red thread. It is how Margarethe expresses herself best. I was fortunate enough the author provided me with a playlist of all the songs that feature in this book. Look them up on youtube to get an almost 3d experience!
Acts of Contrition is expected to be out in January 2019. Buy the series!
f/f trigger warning for a rape scene
Themes: aftermath of WWII, Berlin in ruins, loss, the Russian ‘liberators’, the Allied forces, the strong women of Germany, I weep for Edelheim, and I want a Grauer for myself (or a Krauss), to have lost and love again, Margarethe rises like a phoenix from the ashes, I was up at all hours because I could not put this book down, all threads were neatly tied up, epic and compelling storytelling.
5 stars
* An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
What I love first and foremost about the series is the formidable Countess Stahle, or Margarethe von Stahle, Reichsgräfin von Langenberg-Edelheim, Gräfin von u. zu Raithschau, Baronin von Leichthal if you want to be precise. She is strong, proud, brilliantly gifted, stubborn, loyal, old school, German to the core and one of the best characters I’ve come across in a long time. Through the skill of the author Margarethe (as well as the others) has stepped off the pages and feels very much alive to me. Like I could go and look her up on Wikipedia. I am comforted in the knowledge that Graf is working on a prequel so I don’t have to say goodbye just yet.
Now I want to tell you so much about the book, but after seeing the blurb has been kept purposely vague I’m certain I can’t spill any beans. It would spoil the experience. Just know that it is an epic journey (if you haven’t read Occasions of Sin and Lies of Omission, you need to go and do that first). There is unspeakable loss, trauma and hardship but also hope and love and resilience. The aftermath of World War II and the effect it had on the German population is not a story portrayed too often. You know what they say, history is recorded through the eyes of the victor. Elena Graf gives a chilling account of what happened in Berlin with great historical accuracy and detail. I’ve learned a lot and I’m always thankful when an author can give me that gift.
Oh and I almost forgot to tell you about the music. Music is running through the series as a red thread. It is how Margarethe expresses herself best. I was fortunate enough the author provided me with a playlist of all the songs that feature in this book. Look them up on youtube to get an almost 3d experience!
Acts of Contrition is expected to be out in January 2019. Buy the series!
f/f trigger warning for a rape scene
Themes: aftermath of WWII, Berlin in ruins, loss, the Russian ‘liberators’, the Allied forces, the strong women of Germany, I weep for Edelheim, and I want a Grauer for myself (or a Krauss), to have lost and love again, Margarethe rises like a phoenix from the ashes, I was up at all hours because I could not put this book down, all threads were neatly tied up, epic and compelling storytelling.
5 stars
* An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2019
In this volume a few years have passed after the events of Lies of Omission.
The life Margarethe knew is no longer the same. The war came and with it has taken a large chunk of the character.
I confess that upon seeing the warnings in the synopsis of the book I was very anxious for what I could find. After all, rape is a very heavy subject and because I really like the character I didn't want to read something so devastating happening to her.
But my anxiety was partly in vain, for although it was a dark moment, the author didn't go deeper into the scene. So when reading, I felt uncomfortable (as is expected in scenes like this), but not to the point of feeling very shaken.
Because the essential focuses of the narrative are linked to events during the war, I find myself measuring words so as not to release too many spoilers. So this review will be rather short...Or not (*´・ｖ・)
The story brings back two characters I liked quite a lot in volume 3: Eva and Sarah.
While Eva doesn't have a very large participation in this book, it was of great importance to cement some progress in Margarethe.（＾_＾）
My feelings for Eva are confusing to say the least (゜▽゜;)
I like the impetuous relationship of Margarethe and Eva. How the character behaves uniquely when in the presence of Eva and how Eva herself manages to capture the essence of Margarethe. At the same time as this is a purely carnal relationship, it is also, I would say ... psychological.
Anyway ...(•‿•) (I don't even know what I'm talking about anymore... obviously.(๑￫‿￩๑) ).
Sarah has a much larger role in this narrative. In volume 3 when she says goodbye to Margarethe there was a very sentimental moment in which the characters hug and kiss. It was obvious at one point in the book that Sarah had some kind of feeling for Margarethe, yet Margarethe took a long time to see this, since all her attention was on Katherine and Eva.
The relationship between Margarethe and Sarah was quite interesting and I found myself quite enjoying the character, although some of her approaches to Margarethe's "problem" were somewhat ... Hm ... Not too cool ( ・◇・)
But anyway ... I chose to close my eyes to this and thought of the year that all this happened and the little information on the subject, so ... I closed my eyes and that's it. (￣ー￣)
I confess that the end left me wanting more (ᅌᴗᅌ* ). But then, when do I read Passin Rites and just settle for the end of the book? ゞ(＊ゝω・)ノ
Another thing that I have been wanting and who knows, if there is a continuation of the series we will get to see, is Margarethe's greater engagement with her family. Of course, in this volume Margarethe took quite important steps in the relationship with her daughter, but I wanted to read more about these two.
I have seen on /u/ people saying how "real" this book feels and I can't help thinking the same. Situations between Sarah and Margarethe are so well written and with such a rational touch that I catch myself analyzing and realizing just how "human" they are. This attracts me, since in some romances some situations are so forced that I can't help but roll my eyes in disbelief.
Anyway ... I've already stretched too much.
Why 4.8 stars?
-> Chemistry between the characters (love relationships in general) 10/10
-> Developing relationships 10/10 (I don't think I would categorize this as a slow burn, but every relationship whether this romantic or familiar has a good step and didn't feel rushed or sudden.)
-> Interesting events treated throughout the story 9/10 (As already explained, I had a blind eye on how Sarah approached Margarethe's trauma, taking into account the year and the possible shortage of information on how to deal with it, but for a few moments I couldn't help frowning)
-> Engaging characters 10/10
The life Margarethe knew is no longer the same. The war came and with it has taken a large chunk of the character.
I confess that upon seeing the warnings in the synopsis of the book I was very anxious for what I could find. After all, rape is a very heavy subject and because I really like the character I didn't want to read something so devastating happening to her.
But my anxiety was partly in vain, for although it was a dark moment, the author didn't go deeper into the scene. So when reading, I felt uncomfortable (as is expected in scenes like this), but not to the point of feeling very shaken.
Because the essential focuses of the narrative are linked to events during the war, I find myself measuring words so as not to release too many spoilers. So this review will be rather short...Or not (*´・ｖ・)
The story brings back two characters I liked quite a lot in volume 3: Eva and Sarah.
While Eva doesn't have a very large participation in this book, it was of great importance to cement some progress in Margarethe.（＾_＾）
My feelings for Eva are confusing to say the least (゜▽゜;)
I like the impetuous relationship of Margarethe and Eva. How the character behaves uniquely when in the presence of Eva and how Eva herself manages to capture the essence of Margarethe. At the same time as this is a purely carnal relationship, it is also, I would say ... psychological.
Anyway ...(•‿•) (I don't even know what I'm talking about anymore... obviously.(๑￫‿￩๑) ).
Sarah has a much larger role in this narrative. In volume 3 when she says goodbye to Margarethe there was a very sentimental moment in which the characters hug and kiss. It was obvious at one point in the book that Sarah had some kind of feeling for Margarethe, yet Margarethe took a long time to see this, since all her attention was on Katherine and Eva.
The relationship between Margarethe and Sarah was quite interesting and I found myself quite enjoying the character, although some of her approaches to Margarethe's "problem" were somewhat ... Hm ... Not too cool ( ・◇・)
But anyway ... I chose to close my eyes to this and thought of the year that all this happened and the little information on the subject, so ... I closed my eyes and that's it. (￣ー￣)
I confess that the end left me wanting more (ᅌᴗᅌ* ). But then, when do I read Passin Rites and just settle for the end of the book? ゞ(＊ゝω・)ノ
Another thing that I have been wanting and who knows, if there is a continuation of the series we will get to see, is Margarethe's greater engagement with her family. Of course, in this volume Margarethe took quite important steps in the relationship with her daughter, but I wanted to read more about these two.
I have seen on /u/ people saying how "real" this book feels and I can't help thinking the same. Situations between Sarah and Margarethe are so well written and with such a rational touch that I catch myself analyzing and realizing just how "human" they are. This attracts me, since in some romances some situations are so forced that I can't help but roll my eyes in disbelief.
Anyway ... I've already stretched too much.
Why 4.8 stars?
-> Chemistry between the characters (love relationships in general) 10/10
-> Developing relationships 10/10 (I don't think I would categorize this as a slow burn, but every relationship whether this romantic or familiar has a good step and didn't feel rushed or sudden.)
-> Interesting events treated throughout the story 9/10 (As already explained, I had a blind eye on how Sarah approached Margarethe's trauma, taking into account the year and the possible shortage of information on how to deal with it, but for a few moments I couldn't help frowning)
-> Engaging characters 10/10
December 31, 2018
I was provided a copy of this book before it was published.
This is the final book in the series that focuses on the life of Margarethe von Stahle, a German countess and renown surgeon. This book takes place after WWII in 1946-47 and focuses primarily on the character arc of Margarethe as she begins a new relationship in the wake of tragedy and among the ruins of Berlin.
Like the other two books, the writing and historical details are exceptional. This novel ties up a lot of the earlier story lines. The ending is a bit abrupt but quite apt given the development of the main character. It is an engaging and compelling read.
This is the final book in the series that focuses on the life of Margarethe von Stahle, a German countess and renown surgeon. This book takes place after WWII in 1946-47 and focuses primarily on the character arc of Margarethe as she begins a new relationship in the wake of tragedy and among the ruins of Berlin.
Like the other two books, the writing and historical details are exceptional. This novel ties up a lot of the earlier story lines. The ending is a bit abrupt but quite apt given the development of the main character. It is an engaging and compelling read.
January 15, 2019
Another fantasic historical novel by Elena Graf. The historic research, seamless writing and believable characters make this book a must read and feel more like a biography than a work of fiction. This book will throw you to the floor then pick you up and make everything alright before hitting you again and again, love this series.
September 13, 2021
As always, this was a phenomenal chapter in the Passing Rites series. Elena Graf is simply smart. The amount of detailed knowledge, as well as the variety of topics is impressive. Her research goes above and beyond. It is such a well thought out and intelligent book and series.
January 31, 2024
I need the next book asap please!
April 26, 2021
Oofdah! Graf just dives right into the violence and terror that continues to reign in Berlin under the Russian 'liberation' immediately after WWII. She also drops several bombs on the reader in the form of more MC deaths. I barely made it through the first few pages, I was so upset. But I guess that's war for you.... Lucky for me, I only experienced it vicariously through a fictional character.
Happily, the rest of the book remains fairly calm. The restoration of Margarethe's life follows similar patterns to the restoration of Germany itself. We get some closure in certain relationships, while others start to blossom with promise. I think this was the perfect way to end the series (although I could have happily continued reading more books about Margarethe's life together with Sarah. I got the HEA I was looking for too!
Graf continues to do a wonderful job of endearing the main and even secondary or tertiary characters to the reader (or making you loathe them at times) and putting you right there in the middle of the story, almost as if you were these people.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this series and the roller coaster of emotions it took me on!
Happily, the rest of the book remains fairly calm. The restoration of Margarethe's life follows similar patterns to the restoration of Germany itself. We get some closure in certain relationships, while others start to blossom with promise. I think this was the perfect way to end the series (although I could have happily continued reading more books about Margarethe's life together with Sarah. I got the HEA I was looking for too!
Graf continues to do a wonderful job of endearing the main and even secondary or tertiary characters to the reader (or making you loathe them at times) and putting you right there in the middle of the story, almost as if you were these people.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this series and the roller coaster of emotions it took me on!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2019
I have to confess that I hesitated to read this series because of the setting in which the stories took place. Once I read the first book I couldn't wait for the other two books to be released. Yes there are hardships in these novels, however Graf does a beautiful job of writing about the humanity and the resilience of people and the transformative power of love.
The main character throughout the stories is Margarethe, who at first I thought was going to be the typical ice princess until you get to know the character and realize that she epitomized aristocratic old German values because that's the culture she grew up in. What is the astounding is the fact that beneath her apparent hard shell she remained a kind, generous, loving and considerate person. The way that Graf portrayed her throughout the series was the best character development I have ever read, she is a gifted writer.
This story, while part of a series, can certainly be a standalone novel. The saga picks up in this novel at the end of world war two and the aftermath of the horrific violence that Margarethe endured and her incredible journey of healing the many losses in her life, especially that of her dignity. She's able to do this with the help of nuns and Sarah, a character who appeared in a previous novel, who gently with incredible sensitivity, helps Margarethe get back to the woman she was. The transformation of Margarethe from the beginning of this novel to the last page left me breathless when I thought about it; Graf took me on an incredible journey that was not only emotional but incredibly reaffirming of the goodness of people and what true love can bring out in a person.
I highly recommend this book and the complete series because it is a incredible experience from start to finish.
The main character throughout the stories is Margarethe, who at first I thought was going to be the typical ice princess until you get to know the character and realize that she epitomized aristocratic old German values because that's the culture she grew up in. What is the astounding is the fact that beneath her apparent hard shell she remained a kind, generous, loving and considerate person. The way that Graf portrayed her throughout the series was the best character development I have ever read, she is a gifted writer.
This story, while part of a series, can certainly be a standalone novel. The saga picks up in this novel at the end of world war two and the aftermath of the horrific violence that Margarethe endured and her incredible journey of healing the many losses in her life, especially that of her dignity. She's able to do this with the help of nuns and Sarah, a character who appeared in a previous novel, who gently with incredible sensitivity, helps Margarethe get back to the woman she was. The transformation of Margarethe from the beginning of this novel to the last page left me breathless when I thought about it; Graf took me on an incredible journey that was not only emotional but incredibly reaffirming of the goodness of people and what true love can bring out in a person.
I highly recommend this book and the complete series because it is a incredible experience from start to finish.
April 1, 2021
The object is not to see all the loss without seeing what remains even among the ruins.
This book is so powerfully full of moments not often retold in history. WW2 is coming to a close. The characters are all struggling with the loss of life, loved ones and the very fiber of being. The atrocities committed can hardly be spoken but must be endered by so many. The city of Berlin is conquered by all the allies and rebuilding must begin. The stories of women and their lives in pieces will hold your heart in such a tight grip at times it hurts. The characters are struggling to make life anew in what can only be seen as a deconstruction of the life they knew. This is the last book in the series and as the years of war cause a lifetime of pain they must reach for family to rebuild.
The insight, complete trust and letting go of the past may be too much to live with. This series and now the 1st book by Elena Graf entitled The Imperative of Desire (which came out today) took me on an epic journey, told in the lives of the woman who lived it. The facts, the sheer ability to watch strong woman navigate a very difficult time, and such detail to historic events is priceless. I loved Margarethe, she has experienced more sorrow than many woman twice her age. You watch her grow and learn how to reclaim a portion of all she lost. I hope that another book because Sarah and Mararethe have much to do! It.l rare to have a historical fiction with the depth, facts and such emotionally charged experience. The drama of the main characters lives could be pulled from the newpapers of the time period. What a difficult but precious story I am so glad to have read.
This book is so powerfully full of moments not often retold in history. WW2 is coming to a close. The characters are all struggling with the loss of life, loved ones and the very fiber of being. The atrocities committed can hardly be spoken but must be endered by so many. The city of Berlin is conquered by all the allies and rebuilding must begin. The stories of women and their lives in pieces will hold your heart in such a tight grip at times it hurts. The characters are struggling to make life anew in what can only be seen as a deconstruction of the life they knew. This is the last book in the series and as the years of war cause a lifetime of pain they must reach for family to rebuild.
The insight, complete trust and letting go of the past may be too much to live with. This series and now the 1st book by Elena Graf entitled The Imperative of Desire (which came out today) took me on an epic journey, told in the lives of the woman who lived it. The facts, the sheer ability to watch strong woman navigate a very difficult time, and such detail to historic events is priceless. I loved Margarethe, she has experienced more sorrow than many woman twice her age. You watch her grow and learn how to reclaim a portion of all she lost. I hope that another book because Sarah and Mararethe have much to do! It.l rare to have a historical fiction with the depth, facts and such emotionally charged experience. The drama of the main characters lives could be pulled from the newpapers of the time period. What a difficult but precious story I am so glad to have read.
August 28, 2021
Highly recommendable
Rezension aus Deutschland vom 1. September 2020
This fourth installment of the Passing Rites series continues the saga around main character Margarethe von Stahle, whose life is portrayed through different stages of German history leading up to, during, and post Nazi regime and World War 2. In Acts of Contrition, which starts off in bomb-gutted Berlin right after the end of the war, Margarethe has to suffer through acute trauma and deal with unspeakably painful losses inflicted upon her during the National Socialist tyranny and the war years. Throughout the book, she is gradually able to fight her way back to life and find a second chance at love.
This book, and the whole series, is meticulously researched for historical accuracy. Its true to life characters, excellent narrative and writing style render Acts of Contrition a true work of art that, despite its difficult topic, was an immense pleasure to read. I am very much looking forward to the sequel that is going to portray Margarethe's life during the years of reconstruction.
Rezension aus Deutschland vom 1. September 2020
This fourth installment of the Passing Rites series continues the saga around main character Margarethe von Stahle, whose life is portrayed through different stages of German history leading up to, during, and post Nazi regime and World War 2. In Acts of Contrition, which starts off in bomb-gutted Berlin right after the end of the war, Margarethe has to suffer through acute trauma and deal with unspeakably painful losses inflicted upon her during the National Socialist tyranny and the war years. Throughout the book, she is gradually able to fight her way back to life and find a second chance at love.
This book, and the whole series, is meticulously researched for historical accuracy. Its true to life characters, excellent narrative and writing style render Acts of Contrition a true work of art that, despite its difficult topic, was an immense pleasure to read. I am very much looking forward to the sequel that is going to portray Margarethe's life during the years of reconstruction.
September 15, 2025
This was really excellent. I wish I had lingered over this series a little more, but I had a pressing need to stay awake for 30 hours straight, so I read them all basically back-to-back.
This last book is absolutely brutal in many ways (as you might expect from the setting). One of the funny things about the earlier books is how little time Margarethe spends thinking about or interacting with her children. She spends a lot of time time thinking about them in this one, among many other things. There's a lot of reflection, and some more spiritual, psychological, vaguely supernatural elements. Margarethe is haunted, and struggling not to wallow in grief for all she's lost. But the other side of that is hope for something new to grow out of the ashes; a new life for her and a new Germany in place of the horrible one that died.
This last book is absolutely brutal in many ways (as you might expect from the setting). One of the funny things about the earlier books is how little time Margarethe spends thinking about or interacting with her children. She spends a lot of time time thinking about them in this one, among many other things. There's a lot of reflection, and some more spiritual, psychological, vaguely supernatural elements. Margarethe is haunted, and struggling not to wallow in grief for all she's lost. But the other side of that is hope for something new to grow out of the ashes; a new life for her and a new Germany in place of the horrible one that died.
July 29, 2019
The characters are so rich and well-written in the entire series! This is a seamless and flawless sequel to books 2 and 3 in the series.
The war is over and Margarethe is trying to find semblance, order and the grace she has known all her life, in war-torn Berlin. There have been some mighty changes in her world, some horrible and some wonderful! It's not enough to try and give a review of these books - they must be read to be truly appreciated! I haven't read a captivating series of books like this in a very long time.
The war is over and Margarethe is trying to find semblance, order and the grace she has known all her life, in war-torn Berlin. There have been some mighty changes in her world, some horrible and some wonderful! It's not enough to try and give a review of these books - they must be read to be truly appreciated! I haven't read a captivating series of books like this in a very long time.
May 4, 2022
the Best series of books!
It grabs with incredible descriptions of characters and times of life. It is moving, shocking and unexpected but an incredible series you cannot stop reading or put down. It will stay with you…. Just incredible writing!!
Get it, enjoy the ride…..
It grabs with incredible descriptions of characters and times of life. It is moving, shocking and unexpected but an incredible series you cannot stop reading or put down. It will stay with you…. Just incredible writing!!
Get it, enjoy the ride…..
February 7, 2019
This was such an excellent last part of the story. The characters are superbly alive and the tale riveting. I have grown to love these characters very much and will definitely revisit them some day.
March 1, 2022
Wow
Did not like the rape but she overcame felt the pain of Kath and her son. Glad she went to she Eve to meet her grandson. Glad her and What's got back together
Did not like the rape but she overcame felt the pain of Kath and her son. Glad she went to she Eve to meet her grandson. Glad her and What's got back together
July 15, 2025
need to read the two previous novels -- but this book is on a romance through the end of WWII in Germany, Berlin, following one remarkable woman.
December 27, 2023
It has taken me around a month to be able to write this review. Why so long? I wanted to take the time to ensure that I paid homage to the final installment of the series in a way that honors the story, the characters, and most importantly, the author. That is until I realized what an impossible task I'd set for myself. So now I shall just jump in and hope that I can give you an inkling of the power of Acts of Contrition and the Passing Rites series.
Initially, I found that Acts of Contrition was not an easy book to read. The main character, Margarethe, a heroine of her times in so many ways, was subjected to such brutality, both physically and mentally, at the end of the war that was difficult to digest. How can such a strong, independent, and sexually liberated woman survive this? It tore at my heart to read her so damaged. Damaged by strangers who wreaked physical havoc and left a bloody aftermath as well as the psychological damage created by accusations against her very own son. Like everyone who reads this series, to know Margarethe is to fall deeply in love with her and to innately feel her pain. A polarizing character, Margarethe is somewhat obstinate, arrogant, and entitled to the point of dislike. Her saving grace is that she manages to balance those aspects of her character with perfect respect for people and a deep-seated desire to do good. Alas, at the risk of spoiling the story I must stop there.
Throughout the whole series, Graf's dedication to the subject, the period, and the plight of her characters is impeccable. I feel somewhat humbled to be benefitting from the immense research she has so obviously undertaken as evidenced by the strength and voracity of the storyline. Reading between the lines you are left with the intrinsic sense that this series was truly a labor of love for her, and we, the readers, benefit so selfishly from that.
There is so much thought-provoking knowledge to be gained from these books. Graf has managed to capture the between war social and sexual liberation of the time, the decline of aristocracy, the economic and political atmosphere that led up to the war to end all wars and in this final chapter, the aftermath as society attempts to rebuild and deal with the horrendous acts their relatives, friends, associates had dealt to one another. All amidst the constant evolution of women's rights from the dedicated actions of a few strong and resilient women forcing their way through social barriers, to the wartime dynamics that forced society to become reliant on women performing, and excelling, in non-traditional roles.
If you are a seeker of knowledge, a lover of history, or a student of the human condition, you really must read this series. As a result, like me, you will be forever changed. A mere thank you to Graf is so very inadequate to express the gratitude I feel having read this series.
Initially, I found that Acts of Contrition was not an easy book to read. The main character, Margarethe, a heroine of her times in so many ways, was subjected to such brutality, both physically and mentally, at the end of the war that was difficult to digest. How can such a strong, independent, and sexually liberated woman survive this? It tore at my heart to read her so damaged. Damaged by strangers who wreaked physical havoc and left a bloody aftermath as well as the psychological damage created by accusations against her very own son. Like everyone who reads this series, to know Margarethe is to fall deeply in love with her and to innately feel her pain. A polarizing character, Margarethe is somewhat obstinate, arrogant, and entitled to the point of dislike. Her saving grace is that she manages to balance those aspects of her character with perfect respect for people and a deep-seated desire to do good. Alas, at the risk of spoiling the story I must stop there.
Throughout the whole series, Graf's dedication to the subject, the period, and the plight of her characters is impeccable. I feel somewhat humbled to be benefitting from the immense research she has so obviously undertaken as evidenced by the strength and voracity of the storyline. Reading between the lines you are left with the intrinsic sense that this series was truly a labor of love for her, and we, the readers, benefit so selfishly from that.
There is so much thought-provoking knowledge to be gained from these books. Graf has managed to capture the between war social and sexual liberation of the time, the decline of aristocracy, the economic and political atmosphere that led up to the war to end all wars and in this final chapter, the aftermath as society attempts to rebuild and deal with the horrendous acts their relatives, friends, associates had dealt to one another. All amidst the constant evolution of women's rights from the dedicated actions of a few strong and resilient women forcing their way through social barriers, to the wartime dynamics that forced society to become reliant on women performing, and excelling, in non-traditional roles.
If you are a seeker of knowledge, a lover of history, or a student of the human condition, you really must read this series. As a result, like me, you will be forever changed. A mere thank you to Graf is so very inadequate to express the gratitude I feel having read this series.
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