Lilac Girls: A Novel (Woolsey-Ferriday)

A New York Times Bestseller. For readers of The Nightingale and Sarah’s Key, Lilac Girls is inspired by the life of a real World War II heroine. This remarkable debut novel reveals the power of unsung women to change history in their quest for love, freedom, and second chances. The lives of three women-Caroline, Kasia, and Herta, are set on a collision course when the unthinkable happens and Kasia is sent to Ravensbrück, the notorious Nazi concentration camp for women. Their stories cross continents—from New York to Paris, Germany, and Poland—as Caroline and Kasia strive to bring justice to those whom history has forgotten.

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Published Feb 28, 2017

576 pages

Average rating: 7.76

439 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Kristen Olson
Jan 14, 2025
10/10 stars
Beautifully written historical novel about the Polish “rabbits” who were experimented on by Nazi doctors at Ravensbruck. The chapters written from Caroline’s point of view were a much needed break from the atrocities described in the other chapters. Caroline’s story of how she worked on behalf of the “rabbits” to help them reminded me that one woman can make a difference. Highly recommend.
KikiStoneCreek
Jun 03, 2023
10/10 stars
I found this book so wonderful and heartbreaking to read. The three perspectives made for exquisite storytelling. A great read amongst all the books I have read.
Dale Wilde
May 12, 2020
March 2017 selection
IrishNana54
Feb 26, 2025
4/10 stars
This was a book club pick that I am in. I found it to be a good read and finding out that this was based on two of the four women that had been there in real life was interesting to say the least. Although I have not personally visited Ravensbrook, I have visited Dachau..to say the least, it is intense...if historical fiction is not your "cup of tea"..then I would advise you to just skip this book. However I would suggest you to be open minded about this historical fiction piece, and give it a try. I was able to finish it in 3 days.
Coffee with Kirsten
Jan 20, 2025
8/10 stars
Beautiful book

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