This. Book. Is. Painful.

You know, it is hard knowing what happened in history, but it is even harder to know what happened and read a book with the facts from the point of view of the historical figures.

I didn't read the whole book... I skimmed at points due to the painfulness of history. Barratt did a spectacular job and I'm sad that I didn't read every page but I just can't bear it!

For mature readers due to the subjects covered.

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A nearly middle-aged German theologian and pastor who's forbidden to preach, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, lives in constant danger as a double agent during World War II, involved in plans to assassinate Hitler. The last thing he might have expected during this dark and dangerous time would be to fall in love with young Maria von Wedemeyer in My Dearest Dietrich: A Novel of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Lost Love by author Amanda Barratt.

This biographical novel must have been on my radar about a year or so before I finally read it, having picked up from the cover and title what kind of love story it would be, and knowing much about how it would end.

When I already know where a story is going, it takes more than just "going there" to keep me interested. The sensitive and nuanced way the author develops Dietrich and Maria in this novel kept me, a longtime historical fiction devotee, not only interested but engrossed.

Yes, it's a sober, heartrending read of faith, as I expected. It also has wonderful imagery, and the scattered moments of joy are earned. The romance here is one of the meeting of minds, a slow burn of emotional depth made more intense through ever-lurking peril.

Admittedly, I became a bit annoyed at the hero and heroine a time or two, even knowing the events are true, and I came across some minor predictability in the writing here and there (as well as the repeated use of the word "stationary" where it should say stationery, in reference to writing materials).

But I ached at times through the tragedy and beauty of this story. And reading it impressed upon me the more how crucial it is for us not to merely romanticize history but to purposely learn from it—and to remember it in the midst of our critical present.
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review. ( )

Loved this book. It shows the greatness of love and the goodness of God to help us through all situations no matter how tragic or unfair the circumstances. It is romantic, inspiring, and faith-building. ( )

Biographical fiction is a hard genre to master. You have to be true to your subject, yet present it in a creative and fresh way that will appeal to readers. Amanda Barratt took on a tough task when deciding to write a book featuring esteemed theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Her newest book, My Dearest Dietrich, captures the man that many did not know existed. An intimate look at the relationship between Bonhoeffer and his fiancee, Maria von Wedemeyer, this novel reminds the reader of the lives and loves that exist even during the turmoil of war. I really liked this book, yet have a hard time articulating how it touched my heart. It is definitely a highly recommended read.

Before starting My Dearest Dietrich, I had only Bonhoeffer’s writings on the Christian life as a frame of reference. Barratt drew on those writings, plus the correspondence between Bonhoeffer and Maria, as well as other letters, to flesh out the man he truly was. Known as a brilliant theologian, a spy and conspirator determined to bring down Hitler, and an ultimate martyr to the cause, Bonhoeffer could be seen as larger than life. Barratt’s portrayal combines those elements with a heart of love and gentleness — a man who yearns for an ordinary life as husband, just as much as he yearns for a restored Germany. Maria is a young woman whose maturity grows as she faces hardship and heartache. Their story is set amidst the backdrop of cruelty and terror, yet it is the novel’s depiction of the mundane that allows the reader to see a blossoming relationship growing even in the hardest of times. There is a sense of hope in that. God was central to Maria and Dietrich’s lives, and their belief in Him determined their day-to-day decisions as well as their defiance of the Nazi regime. The book begins slowly, allowing the reader to see just what the characters are made of. Towards the end, the tension of the end of the war and the certain end of many of the characters’ lives made me read faster and faster. There are so many what-ifs the book brings to mind — what-if the conspiracy had been successful, what-if Bonhoeffer had not been discovered, what-if the Allies advancement on Berlin had been swifter. While I had a sense of sadness for Bonhoeffer and Maria, I am glad that I was given a small glimpse into their lives. Truly heroic, they serve as wonderful examples of lives devoted to each other, as well as Christ.

My Dearest Dietrich is perfect for book discussion groups. There is so, so much to talk about — a Christian’s role in civic affairs, the appropriateness of rebellion against authority, the importance of placing God’s values and laws above society’s — are just a few. But I believe it is the bittersweet love of Maria and Dietrich that will capture the reader’s heart. Grab a few friends to read this book with.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to Kregel and the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )

Amanda Barratt’s beautifully penned love story based on the lives of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Maria von Wedemeyer is truly a work of art. Her impeccable and detailed research, combined with her gift of story, add up to an exquisite and heart-wrenching tale which is a must-read for historical fiction lovers. Because this story is based on actual people, and because history had already determined the ending, there is an added poignancy to it.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a brilliant theologian who could not compromise his beliefs in the face of Hitler’s Nazism. He and many others conspired against Hitler and his atrocities knowing that the tiniest hint of conspiracy could bring the ultimate sacrifice. My heart broke for him and Maria and their families that were torn apart by the war and “man’s inhumanity to man.” The letters written between the two give a glimpse of their lives and feelings during this bleak time in history. The characters, both main and secondary, are vividly drawn and come to life on the page.

The cover/book jacket is beautiful and striking and drew me in immediately. I enjoyed the author’s notes at the end of the book, which included updates on the lives of some of the characters and gave additional information on the book.

My Dearest Dietrich has easily made the list of my favorite reads of the year and is bound for my keeper shelf. I would highly recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction based on fact.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own. ( )