The Violinist of Auschwitz

By: Ellie Midwood

Narrated by: Alison Campbell

Length: 12 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's Summary

Auschwitz, 1943: In the depths of hell, can hope rise? And can love triumph over hatred? 

Based on the unforgettable true story of Alma Rosé, The Violinist of Auschwitz brings to life one of history’s most fearless, inspiring, and courageous heroines. Alma’s bravery saved countless lives, bringing hope to those who had forgotten its meaning....

In Auschwitz, every day is a fight for survival. Alma is inmate 50381, the number tattooed on her skin in pale blue ink. She is cooped up with thousands of others, torn from loved ones, trapped in a maze of barbed wire. Every day people disappear, never to be seen again.

This tragic reality couldn’t be further from Alma’s previous life. An esteemed violinist, her performances left her audiences spellbound. But when the Nazis descend on Europe, none of that can save her....

When the head of the women’s camp appoints Alma as the conductor of the orchestra, performing for prisoners trudging to work as well as the highest-ranking Nazis, Alma refuses: “They can kill me, but they won’t make me play”. Yet she soon realizes the power this position offers: She can provide starving girls with extra rations and save many from the clutches of death.

This is how Alma meets Miklos, a talented pianist. Surrounded by despair, they find happiness in joint rehearsals, secret notes, and concerts they give side by side - all the while praying that this will one day end. But in Auschwitz, the very air is tainted with loss, and tragedy is the only certainty.... In such a hopeless place, can their love survive?

This devastatingly heartbreaking yet beautifully hopeful tale proves that even in the darkest of days, love can prevail - and give you something to live for. Fans of The Choice, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, and The Orphan Train will lose their hearts to this magnificent tale.

©2020 Ellie Midwood (P)2020 Bookouture, an imprint of Storyfire Ltd.

Beautiful story but not for the faint-hearted

This is a spellbinding story made all the more remarkable by its firm roots in the history of both inmates and captors in Auschwitz. It recounts with sometimes graphic clarity some of the key events and characters in the grim confines of that camp. And at its centre is Alma Rosé, a woman whose defiant dignity and integrity affected all who knew her in that god-forsaken place. It is a truly amazing story, narrated with real skill and heart. But beware - it will take you on an emotional roller coaster, and you will not come out the other side quite the same.

An unforgettable story!

This is one of those incredibly emotional and inspiring stories that will stay with you for a long time. Alma Rosé was a true heroine, fearless, resilient, and incredibly strong, who wasn't afraid to stand up to her oppressors in order to save the girls under her charge. When even looking at an SS man could earn one a ticket to the gas chamber, Alma stood up to the Angel of Death himself and such courage is truly worth admiration. The romance, even though fictionalized, provided a great insight into a work of the camp resistance through Miklós' eyes and also showed what a healthy relationship should look like - a partnership where both partners support each other no matter what in contrast with Alma's previous relationships where men abandoned her due to her Jewish heritage. Based on multiple testimonies of the Auschwitz orchestra survivors (make sure to listen to the note on history!), this story is one of self-sacrifice and resistance that everyone should read/listen to. Brilliant work is done by the narrator as well! Have your tissues ready though - you'll need them.

Great Character

I really enjoyed all the historical accuracy and telling the story about a strong character in the face of such adversity. I disliked the romance story that was added. it felt contrived and weaked a strong character.