01/20/2014
The strong religious conviction evident in Rosenberg’s previous novels (Damascus Countdown), which were focused on the Middle East and Muslim-Western relations, is reflected in his latest book—a work of historical fiction, about a heroic escape from the Nazis. Luc, a French pastor, who is sentenced to the Auschwitz death camp for helping Jews, joins forces with Jacob, a Jewish man sent to the camp after his attempt to hijack a train bound for Auschwitz fails. Together they plan to escape to tell an unbelieving world about the Holocaust. During the escape, the two form a strong bond, learning about each other’s faith and doubts. When Jacob questions why Luc has joined the Resistance, the pastor responds, “The real question is ‘Why aren’t all the Christians here?’ ” Rosenberg has done what he does best: create believable characters set in a political milieu and also in religious context, acting on conviction or exploiting religion for selfish or evil ends. This is Rosenberg’s most deeply moving work to date. Agent: Scott Miller, Trident Media Group. (Mar.)

Narrator Christopher Lane doesn’t need to add dramatic effect to this harrowing story of escape from the Auschwitz Nazi death camp. He wisely chooses a serious but straightforward narration that equally projects a strong humanity. Lane's steady, compelling performance serves the story of teenaged Jacob, a German Jew, and Jean-Luc, a French Christian pastor who survive the brutality and horror of the camp and make an escape. Keeping an emotional tone just below the surface, Lane allows listeners to hear of the horrors and grim descriptions without being derailed from Jacob's dedication to his escape, and the hope of success. The historical detail—much of the plot is based on Rudolf Vrba's actual escape—rings true in grim specifics, while the fictionalized interplay of characters enriches the story. Excellent listening. R.F.W. 2015 Audies Winner © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine