Review of Do You Really Want To Know?

[Gerry Steen]

Yeah Gerry, this is a poignant and harrowing tale, that Fraser skillfully weaves together the past and present, the horrors of war with its enduring consequences, to create a deeply moving narrative. The exploration of themes like identity, family, and the lingering trauma of wartime experiences makes it particularly poignant. The alternating timeline was well executed, with each time period shedding light on the others.

Marta’s struggle to connect with her parents, in the aftermath of their trauma, is especially heartbreaking, and categorically it speaks to a universal human longing for understanding and belonging.

Hi, Oke. Wow! Thank you for your reply to this review. You summarized the book very well! Welcome to the Online Book Club. You should be writing reviews.

[williams Emerald]

Your review offers a comprehensive overview of ‘Do You Really Want To Know?’ by Kate Fraser, highlighting its exploration of intergenerational trauma and the quest for identity. Nice review

[João Ramos]

Although I prefer a more linear timeline, it looks like a fascinating book. I also didn't understand the point of migration since Hungary was a member of the Axis. Other than that, great review, as always.

[Gerry Steen]

Although I prefer a more linear timeline, it looks like a fascinating book. I also didn't understand the point of migration since Hungary was a member of the Axis. Other than that, great review, as always.

You are correct. Early in WW2, a lot of Jewish people fled Germany and Austria to find safety in Hungary. A Swedish diplomat was providing temporary safety for Jews in Hungary and visas to go to accepting countries. Eventually the Nazi's took over the day to day operations in Hungary. Jews took to the alps to flee to Switzerland. Not long after, Nazi's started to flee by the same route because the Russians were coming.

[Harshitha G B]

What's better than, listening to story around world war. Because, it's cluster all emotions in single ray. Well written Review and it intriguing to read it.

[MAHAD BAIG MIRZA]

Your review of "Do You Really Want To Know?" by Kate Fraser paints a vivid picture of the novel's compelling narrative and thematic depth. The intricate interweaving of past and present, as well as the exploration of identity, trauma, and forgiveness, adds layers of complexity to the story. Your description of Marta's quest to uncover her family's past and her struggle with identity resonates with readers, drawing them into the emotional journey of the characters.

[Alissa Nesson]

This sounds like a powerful story told in a unique way. Although I have learned a lot about the Holocaust, as a Jewish person, I am not familiar with what the situation was in Hungary. I have a hard time reading detailed accounts of it. I tend to get nightmares when I try. But your review makes this sound like an important and impactful story. Thanks for another great review, Gerry.

[Seetha E]

Would you like to brush up on the history of World War II? Are you curious about how Hungary was affected by the war? Would you like to know how survivors dealt with the atrocities they experienced at the hands of the Nazis?

Having read a couple of memoirs around the war times, I can tell this must have been an intense yet inspiring read. As much as I like to read how these experiences make and break people, it angers me that the lessons are not learned and wars have not stopped.
As always, your review provided valuable insights and summarized the book very well for potential readers.

[patricia MGBEMENA]

The switching of events in this plot seems to be very complicated as it moves from the Austrian Alps to Berlin and many more. I wish the plot would be generally interesting.

[Chi Chiu Michael Mak]

Hungary's involvement in World War II is a less known fact in history. Interested to see more!

[Victor Nwabuisi]

Am fascinated by historical fiction that digs deep into personal aftermaths of war especially from lesser known perspectives like Hungarian survivors. This review has made me eager to see how Marta’s story unfolds and how she pieces together her family’s hidden past. Well done.