The Sister Knot - by Ann S Epstein (Paperback)

About the Book

Liane and Frima, survivors of Holocaust trauma, through cunning, theft and prostitution, navigate the unforgiving streets of Berlin and post-war existence.

Book Synopsis

"A moving, thorough, and entrancing novel about how two orphaned young Berlin women become each other's family during and after the Holocaust." Simone Yehuda, contributing author of The Ones Who Remember: Second-Generation Voices of the Holocaust

In the heart-wrenching tapestry of The Sister Knot, an enthralling tale unfolds, weaving the resilient bond of a female friendship against the backdrop of history. Set amidst the shadows of World War Two, Liane and Frima, survivors of Holocaust trauma, find solace and strength in each other. Together, through cunning, theft and prostitution, they navigate the unforgiving streets of Berlin and post-war existence.

Brought to the United States by a Jewish refugee agency, their destinies diverge, yet the unbreakable thread of their connection persists. Frima, the adopted sister, seemingly lives the American dream-excelling in academics, a prestigious college, a successful husband, intelligent children, and a fulfilling teaching career. On the other side of fate, Liane, thrust into a group home, rejects the conventional path, embracing a life of dead-end jobs, relinquishing a daughter for adoption, and finding solace in her art even amidst the struggles that lead her to prison.

Through six decades marked by drifting apart and fierce reunions, their trajectories reverse, challenging preconceived notions about destiny.

The Sister Knot beckons with its poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the enduring strength of the ties that bind. Join Liane and Frima on their journey through the tapestry of time, where the echoes of the past resonate in the unspoken language of sisterhood.

Review Quotes

"The Sister Knot is a moving, thorough, and entrancing novel about how two orphaned young Berlin women become each other's family during and after the Holocaust." Simone Yehuda, contributing author of The Ones Who Remember: Second-Generation Voices of the Holocaust and playwright

"a rich exploration of how individuals can emerge from challenging beginnings, finding strength and comfort in each other, despite the different paths their lives take... beautifully written and emotionally charged." Deepak Singh, author of Yaad Mohalla

"Liane follows a difficult path that includes an out-of-wedlock child and jail. Her close friend, Frima is adopted into a loving family looking for a traditional daughter to bring them joy and grandchildren... The arc of their story will remain with readers long after the last page." Beth Kirschner, author of Copper Divide

"What a painting of the intense, complex, difficult and joyful rhythms and layers of women's relationships to one another." Rusty Allen, author of Ella's War