The Austrian Bride

A powerful and unforgettable story of the strength of women and the unwavering courage of those who seek a better world

Austria, 1938

After years of hardship, Ella is full of hope for a better future for Austrians, and when Hitler marches into Linz, she can’t help but become swept up in the euphoria of her boyfriend, Max.

But she soon realises her mistake. When she witnesses a woman being shot in the street and a childhood friend’s Jewish department store is closed down, she knows she must do something.

It’s a dangerous time to be a resistor, especially when her fascist boyfriend proposes to her. Knowing the secrets she can uncover, Ella enlists in a Reich Bride School, finding herself propelled into the social elite of the Nazi circle.

Ella knows she has a duty – to her family, her friends, and her country – so while Europe teeters on the brink of WW2, a desperate race begins to save the people she loves. But betraying the Nazis could be her death sentence…

Fans of Suzanne Goldring, Mandy Robotham and Debbie Rix will devour this heartbreaking WWII tale.

Praise for Helen Parusel:

'Pacy, twisty and emotional... a beautiful page-turner ... I highly recommended it' Amanda Geard, author of The Midnight House

‘This novel is a true page turner, as well as being a heart-wrenching, emotional story of one of the darkest chapters of history ...first class research and captivating story-telling!' Louise Fein, author of People Like Us

'I adored The Austrian Bride ... The story is poignant and compelling - and what an ending: wow! ... A brilliant story with a powerful message. I wholeheartedly recommend it' Gill Thompson, author of The Child on Platform One

'...an amazing, edge of your seat, nail bitting, heart racing read' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'Wow, what a powerful book ... absolutely heartbreaking but also beautiful at points' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'The Austrian Bride is a heart warming story... of family, trust, love, loss, courage, friendship and above all bravery to do the right thing' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'A heart-breaking but, oh, so wonderfully powerful and important read' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review