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Once We Were Brothers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Ronald H. Balson

Once We Were Brothers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

Once We Were Brothers is a Jewish historical fiction novel and legal thriller that follows Ben Solomon, a Holocaust survivor in Chicago, who accuses philanthropist Elliot Rosenzweig of being Otto Piatek, a former Nazi officer who betrayed Ben's family during World War II; the story delves into their past in Nazi-occupied Poland and the subsequent legal battle to uncover the truth. The novel addresses themes of the Holocaust, war crimes, and the long-lasting impacts of wartime trauma.

Suspenseful

Emotional

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.5

65,187 ratings

87%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson is celebrated for its gripping narrative and emotional depth, effectively portraying the complexities of loyalty and betrayal. Critics praise its historical accuracy and compelling court drama. However, some note that the prose can be overly simplistic and the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a poignant and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Once We Were Brothers ?

A reader who enjoys Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson is likely captivated by historical fiction centered on World War II, filled with mystery and complex human relationships. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find this novel's exploration of war-torn loyalties and redemption compelling.

4.5

65,187 ratings

87%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Catherine Lockhart

A 39-year-old litigator working for a corporate law firm in Chicago, known for her dedication to justice despite a challenging professional past.

An octogenarian Holocaust survivor living in Chicago, who initiates a legal case against a wealthy businessman he accuses of being a former Nazi SS officer.

A retired billionaire and philanthropist, celebrated for his civic contributions in Chicago, whose true identity as Otto Piatek and past actions are central to the narrative conflict.

A 41-year-old private investigator of Irish descent, known for his investigative skills and strong ethical commitment to supporting Ben’s case alongside Catherine.

Ben’s girlfriend and later wife, remembered fondly by Ben, who continues to connect with her spirit throughout the story.

Otto’s loyal girlfriend before his time in the SS, who plays a crucial role in supporting Ben’s family and ultimately in the legal proceedings.

Ben’s father and a respected community leader, who provides guidance and leadership during the Nazi occupation.

Ben’s younger sister, noted for her beauty, whose tragic fate underscores the cruelties of the Nazi regime.

A young Jewish girl who becomes involved in the Polish resistance after being rescued from a forced prostitution ring.

A Catholic priest and resistance leader, who aids the Solomon family by providing shelter and support in their fight against the Nazis.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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