The Light After the War: A Novel

Written by Anita Abriel

Narrated by Jesse Vilinsky

Inspired by an incredible true story of two Jewish friends who survived the Holocaust, this “heartfelt and memorable tale of family, love, resilience, and the triumph of human spirit” (Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling author) spans World War II from Budapest to Austria and the postwar years from Naples to Caracas, perfect for fans of The German Girl and We Were the Lucky Ones.

Spring 1946: Best friends Vera Frankel and Edith Ban arrive in Naples. Refugees from Hungary, they managed to escape from a train headed for Auschwitz and spent the rest of the war hiding on an Austrian farm. Now, the two young women are starting new lives abroad.

Armed with a letter of recommendation from an American officer, Vera finds work at the United States embassy where she falls in love with Captain Anton Wight. But as Vera and Edith grapple with the aftermath of the war, so too does Anton, and when he suddenly disappears, Vera is forced to change course. Their quest for a better life takes Vera and Edith from Naples to Ellis Island to Caracas as they start careers, reunite with old friends, and rebuild their lives after terrible loss.

Moving, evocative, and compelling, The Light After the War is a timely and “unforgettable story of strength, love, and survival” (Jillian Cantor, USA TODAY bestselling author).

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
• Release date: Feb 4, 2020
• ISBN: 9781797102191

Anita Abriel

Anita Abriel was born in Sydney, Australia. She received a BA in English literature with a minor in creative writing from Bard College. She is the internationally bestselling author of The Light After the War, Lana’s War, and A Girl During the War. She lives in California with her family.

Reviews for The Light After the War

[Maria Salinas · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved it! It was beautifully written, characters were honest and captivating and I could not bring myself to pause this book! Definitely a new favorite!!

[Ryan Welker · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I couldn’t stop listening to this story once I started. It is based upon true events during World War II and the suffering of so many Jewish people. It is an amazing love story that spans four continents. The author wrote it to commemorate her mother’s life.

[Martin Aak · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

And the bit at the end: Yes, Ma'am. Indeed. I think that I understand.

Regardless of my cognition, this was a truly wonderful tale.

Thank you.

[Jacqueline · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Amazing! Totally amazing book full of companionship and wonderfully written.

[Chamene Blanco · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really loved the beautiful details of the book. I needed this book.

[Paula Wold · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great book. I did not want to put it down. It was an audiobook that I choose quickly. I like books about WWII and the people who were and were not directly involved. I enjoy stories about those who had loved ones that served in the military, and those who had suffered to be free and did not serve. I also enjoy books about the people; families who chipped in and did their part to help. Some from countries where the wars were not fought.
The characters were so real, I did not realize how real until the end of the book.
I wish I could find some more WWII audiobooks about American men and women that served militarily, and those helping at home. This one though, was fabulous! I am so glad I chose to listen to it.
If I had to pick something that I felt that was missed, it would be to expound a little more. There were some areas that I felt, “what happen here; did I miss something?” I also wish it had not ended so quickly.
I would have liked the author.to add some more chapters. I was somewhat short. I would have like to extend with a little more about Anton and his new life with his new family. The sudden showing up of Anton, and the sudden engagement to become a “one Big Happy family,” just seemed to leave me thinking, “Where is the rest? and, come on give me more of all of them!”
I really, really, loved it! I highly recommend it.

[Pauli Pocket · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was one of the very best stories I have ever heard.

[Leslee Fiszlewicz · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

There was a lot of suspense in the story, which had me wanting to keep listening to the story.

[Cari · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An emotional journey throughout one of the most terrifying events in history. The story is beautifully written and it's easy to fall in love with the characters. Loved it.

[Cheyanne rush · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved listening to the author's note at the end of the book, and how it was related to her mother's story. I fell in love with the story, and loved the character arcs. What a talented author. 10/10 recommend.

[janice pybas · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This story was full of interesting info about
wWII, intriguing personality’s. Good feeling mix.

[Diana Slater · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great story. While listening I thought it was historical fiction. Great great story that is non fiction!