The Good German by Joseph Kanon is an excellent thriller that makes one think. WWII has ended and Jake Geismar, a former CBS correspondent has landed a plumb spot in Berlin and Potsdam to cover the conference that divides up the world. Personally, he seeks Lena, his German mistress.
Jake stumbles on a murder - an American soldier washes up at Potsdam, along with a lot of money. So, what's going on? cover blurb - What Jake finds is a story of corruption and intrigue reaching deep into the heart of the occupation. Berlin in July 1945 is like nowhere else - a tragedy, and a feverish party after the end of the world.
The American military government is already fighting a new enemy in the east, busily identifying the "good German" who can help win the next war.
This book is a murder mystery, a love story, and holds a lot of research that resonates from history. The Russians and Americans were in a race to claim the German scientists (ex. Von Braun). A lot of money changed hands. It's riveting, scary, and interesting when you look at what happened since 1945. The Good German holds lots of nuances while being a page turner. This is a good escape read. Thumbs up.
Fernweh
1 week ago
A book with a bit of "Everything " in it. sounds wonderful Joanne.
ReplyDeleteHave a good week.
Yvonne.
yep - it could have been more soap opera, but the author kept it interesting
DeleteHi Joanne - it looks a very interesting read - the timing - 1945 Potsdam Conference era ... must have had a multitude of intrigue messages ... as you mention a good escape read ... but for us here - perhaps not quite so much - nearer home. Still I'd be interested to read it - thanks for the review - all the best Hilary
ReplyDeleteNot sure how many liberties the author took with the truth - I was not as knowledgeable so was fine with the fiction.
DeleteSure sounds like one where you can enjoy and learn too.
ReplyDeleteit made me think about that era and the wildness of just post war - sad when they are carving up the spoils.
DeleteI admire both how you devour books, and your openness to all different genres. I'm glad this one kept you on edge. Thanks, Joanne.
ReplyDeleteBe well, my good friend.
I do read a variety, and I've got quite a few friends who are big readers - so it's a good swap meet. If you lived closer -you could join in!
DeleteI need an escape read, thanks. An escape would be even better!
ReplyDeleteSounds like that book has a lot going on in it! Thanks for the review. I hope you're having a good week.
ReplyDelete