Some Murders in Berlin: A WWII Historical Fiction Novel
Eight women slaughtered. Not a headline the Nazis want broadcast to the citizens of Berlin in 1943. Nothing can affect morale at home or the front. Therefore, Dr. Murder must be consulted, regardless of what the lead investigator thinks. Elin Lund detests the moniker she has earned through her forensic psychiatric work. No matter how much she wants to stay in Denmark to protect her half-Jewish daughter from the evil that threatens Copenhagen, Elin feels compelled to help two colleagues who work for the Resistance and are being hunted by the Nazis. They accompany her to Berlin to aid the investigation and to hide in plain sight. If they are discovered, all three will die.
Despite the skepticism of Kriminalinspektor Kurt Schneider, Elin scours the crime scenes for clues, which are easily lost in the rubble from nightly bombings. But the connection between the women remains elusive. One piece of evidence suggests the culprit has ties to the SS. This knowledge endangers both Elin and Kurt for different reasons, both associated with their pasts. Trust becomes an issue because they are enemies who must work together.
Robards has crafted a complex mystery, set in a well-known historical period. The usual subjects are covered in atypical ways that make the story fresh and compelling. Tension, conflict, psychology, and atmosphere combine to clearly demonstrate how the past affects the present and influences who characters are. Danger may lurk in the shadows of Some Murders in Berlin, but the threats and peril are palpable enough to make readers constantly look over their shoulders.
