Review for "Unspoken Words" by Shari J Ryan

Unspoken Words: A Story of the Holocaust by Shari J. Ryan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's been a while since I've read a Shari Ryan book... my tastes for fiction led me down other paths. However, it was Shari's "Last Words" that led me to one of those paths: WWII/Holocaust Fiction. This one, the 'other side' of that aforementioned story, was just as heartbreaking and beautiful.

In "Unspoken Words" we get to hear Charlie's version of how he became part of one of the most hated groups of people in history, and how he struggled with that "forced" decision for his whole life. I don't want to give any spoilers. If you read "Last Words", you already know how the story ends, if you haven't- just read both; either order is fine.

Side note: There's a review for Last Words that points out all of the historical "inaccuracies". IMO, I think that when it comes to historical fiction, *some* artistic liberties should be allowed. If in fact, those inaccuracies ARE inaccurate, it still doesn't take away from the story itself. If you took the SAME story and placed it in any other world where love between a monstrous regime and an oppressed/persecuted people was forbidden, it would STILL work and be just as heartbreaking & beautiful.

AND, I know personally, from years of knowing Shari (a Jewish woman), first as an author and then as a friend, that this story (Unspoken Words) and Last Words, were INSPIRED by TRUE events & stories told to her from her own family members, etc. who lived through that time period/those events. These books have been a work of love AND healing for her. And for me, knowing that, makes me appreciate the bittersweetness of the whole experience. This felt very much fiction mixed with a sort of memoir because of that aspect, and any criticism to the contrary is an exercise in missing the underlying message of love and hope against the worst of odds.

4.5 stars and HIGHLY recommended for anyone that loves feeling the feels of sorrow, pity, love, and redemption... no matter how long the wait.

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