Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trial
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Broken Angels summary
Brief summary
Broken Angels by Gemma Liviero is a gripping historical fiction novel set during World War II. It follows the lives of two women, one German and one Jewish, whose paths intertwine in a story of survival, redemption, and the power of human connection.
Topics
Table of Contents
Broken Angels
Summary of key ideas
Desperate Struggles in the Face of Nazi Oppression
In Broken Angels by Gemma Liviero, we are transported to the harrowing World War II era, where we witness the lives of three individuals, Elsi, Matilda, and Willem, intertwine in the most unexpected ways. Elsi, a young Jewish woman, is fighting for her survival in the Lodz Ghetto. She joins the resistance movement, risking her life daily in the hopes of a better future.
On the other hand, Matilda, a young Romanian girl, is ripped from her family and taken to Germany. There, she is subjected to the Nazis' racial purification experiments, all in the name of creating a perfect Aryan race. The last of our trio, Willem, is a Nazi doctor who initially believes in the regime's ideologies. However, as he witnesses the atrocities committed in the name of racial purity, he begins to question his allegiance.
Interwoven Lives in a Time of Turmoil
As the story unfolds, we see Elsi and Matilda's paths cross when Matilda is sent to work in the ghetto. Despite Matilda's initial hostility towards Elsi, the two form a bond, united by their shared struggle. Meanwhile, Willem, who is posted to the ghetto and later to Auschwitz, is also drawn into their lives. His growing disillusionment with the Nazi regime is further fueled by his interactions with Elsi and Matilda.
As the war progresses and the situation becomes increasingly dire, Elsi, Matilda, and Willem are forced to make difficult choices. Elsi's involvement in the resistance movement becomes more dangerous, Matilda's survival is constantly threatened, and Willem is torn between his duty and his growing moral conscience.
Love, Loss, and Unbreakable Spirit
Despite the overwhelming odds, love blossoms in the unlikeliest of places. Elsi and Willem find themselves drawn to each other, their love a beacon of hope in the midst of despair. Matilda, too, forms a deep bond with a fellow captive, finding solace in their shared suffering.
However, the war continues to take its toll. The trio faces unimaginable loss and heartache, yet their spirits remain unbroken. Elsi's bravery and determination, Matilda's resilience, and Willem's growing sense of humanity continue to shine amidst the darkness.
An Unforgettable Journey of Redemption and Forgiveness
As the war draws to a close, Elsi and Matilda find themselves in a displaced persons camp, struggling to come to terms with their past and uncertain future. Willem, too, is confronted with the consequences of his actions as he stands trial for his involvement in the atrocities.
In a poignant climax, the paths of our protagonists converge once more, leading to a powerful exploration of redemption and forgiveness. Through their shared experiences, they come to understand that despite the horrors they endured, their humanity remains intact.
In conclusion, Broken Angels is a hauntingly beautiful tale that sheds light on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable horror. It is a story of survival, love, and the enduring power of hope, reminding us of the indomitable strength of the human soul.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is Broken Angels about?
Broken Angels by Gemma Liviero is a gripping historical fiction novel set during World War II. It follows the lives of two women, one a German nurse and the other a concentration camp prisoner, whose paths unexpectedly cross. As they navigate the horrors of the war, they form an unlikely bond that challenges their beliefs and changes their lives forever.
Broken Angels Review
Broken Angels (2017) by Gemma Liviero is a powerful historical fiction novel set during World War II. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- It delves into the complexities of human nature during wartime, showcasing both the darkness and light within individuals.
- The intricate interwoven stories of different characters provide a multifaceted perspective on the impact of war on lives.
- Through its emotional depth and unexpected twists, the book captivates readers, ensuring a gripping and thought-provoking reading experience.
Who should read Broken Angels?
Readers interested in historical fiction set during World War II
Those who enjoy stories with complex characters and moral dilemmas
People who want to gain a deeper understanding of the human experience during times of conflict
Categories with Broken Angels
Book summaries like Broken Angels
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.7 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
32 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
Broken Angels FAQs
What is the main message of Broken Angels?
The main message of Broken Angels explores resilience and hope in the face of tragedy.
How long does it take to read Broken Angels?
Reading Broken Angels takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in around 15 minutes.
Is Broken Angels a good book? Is it worth reading?
Broken Angels is a poignant story that captures the strength of the human spirit. Definitely worth the read.
Who is the author of Broken Angels?
Gemma Liviero is the author of Broken Angels.
What to read after Broken Angels?
If you're wondering what to read next after Broken Angels, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
- Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
- Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Judith L. Raiskin
- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher