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Code Name Edelweiss
"What I am looking for--what I desperately need, Mrs. Weiss--is a spy."
Adolf Hitler is still a distant rumble on the horizon, but a Jewish spymaster and his courageous spies uncover a storm of Nazi terror in their own backyard.
In the summer of 1933, a man named Adolf Hitler is the new and powerful anti-Semitic chancellor of Germany. But in Los Angeles, no-nonsense secretary Liesl Weiss has concerns much closer to home. The Great Depression is tightening its grip and Liesl is the sole supporter of two children, an opinionated mother, and a troubled brother.
Leon Lewis is a Jewish lawyer who has watched Adolf Hitler's rise to power--and the increase in anti-Semitism in America--with growing alarm. He believes Nazi agents are working to seize control of Hollywood, the greatest propaganda machine the world has ever known. The trouble is, authorities scoff at his dire warnings.
When Liesl loses her job at MGM, her only choice is to work with Leon Lewis and the mysterious Agent Thirteen to spy on her friends and neighbors in her German American community. What Leon Lewis and his spies find is more chilling--and more dangerous--than any of them suspected.
Code Name Edelweiss is based on a true story, unknown until recent years: How a lone Jewish lawyer and a handful of amateur spies discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
Adolf Hitler is still a distant rumble on the horizon, but a Jewish spymaster and his courageous spies uncover a storm of Nazi terror in their own backyard.
In the summer of 1933, a man named Adolf Hitler is the new and powerful anti-Semitic chancellor of Germany. But in Los Angeles, no-nonsense secretary Liesl Weiss has concerns much closer to home. The Great Depression is tightening its grip and Liesl is the sole supporter of two children, an opinionated mother, and a troubled brother.
Leon Lewis is a Jewish lawyer who has watched Adolf Hitler's rise to power--and the increase in anti-Semitism in America--with growing alarm. He believes Nazi agents are working to seize control of Hollywood, the greatest propaganda machine the world has ever known. The trouble is, authorities scoff at his dire warnings.
When Liesl loses her job at MGM, her only choice is to work with Leon Lewis and the mysterious Agent Thirteen to spy on her friends and neighbors in her German American community. What Leon Lewis and his spies find is more chilling--and more dangerous--than any of them suspected.
Code Name Edelweiss is based on a true story, unknown until recent years: How a lone Jewish lawyer and a handful of amateur spies discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2023
142 people are currently reading
5,037 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Landsem
8books561followersStephanie Landsem writes about women in history for women who love history. Stephanie has traveled on four continents and dozens of countries. When she can’t travel, she reads fiction and history and dreams of her next adventure -- whether it be in person or on the pages of her novels.
Her upcoming release, Code Name Edelweiss, is based on a true story. In 1933 Los Angeles, a Jewish lawyer and his band of amateur spies foil Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
In A Far-Off Land, is a story of murder, mystery and mercy set in the glamour of 1930s Hollywood and the grit of the Great Depression.
The Living Water series � The Well, The Thief, and The Tomb, a Novel of Martha—are stories of women transformed by encounters with Jesus.
Stephanie lives in Minnesota with her husband, random adult children, two bold cats and a neurotic dog. When she's not writing or speaking about her novels, she's gardening, cooking, and dreaming of travel to far-off places. You can find out more about Stephanie and her books at StephanieLandsem.com.
Her upcoming release, Code Name Edelweiss, is based on a true story. In 1933 Los Angeles, a Jewish lawyer and his band of amateur spies foil Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
In A Far-Off Land, is a story of murder, mystery and mercy set in the glamour of 1930s Hollywood and the grit of the Great Depression.
The Living Water series � The Well, The Thief, and The Tomb, a Novel of Martha—are stories of women transformed by encounters with Jesus.
Stephanie lives in Minnesota with her husband, random adult children, two bold cats and a neurotic dog. When she's not writing or speaking about her novels, she's gardening, cooking, and dreaming of travel to far-off places. You can find out more about Stephanie and her books at StephanieLandsem.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 480 reviews
March 12, 2023
It's always the propaganda (which of course we have seen in our time) that slowly but surely can mass produce a culture that believes what they see and hear is always true. This was ever so evident when, before the ascent of Hitler, there was a plan to take over Hollywood, getting rid of the Hollywood moguls who were mostly Jewish, and begin a program to convince the American people of the dangers of the Jews.
It was a frightening but true story of a lawyer Leon Lewis, a Jew, recognizes the danger and can't seem to convince the powers that be that the danger was just waiting to pounce. Liesl Weiss is a secretary, who worked at MGM, and as the times become more desperate because of the Great Depression, loses her job. Leisl is a single parent, a mother of two, who needed the job. When she loses her job, she allies herself with Leon Lewis to spy on her German American neighbors. Liesl's brother is troubled and seems to be going towards the Nazi friends and psychology of hate. Aligned with the mysterious Agent Thirteen, Liesl both become aware of how strong the plan is for the takeover.
With this information and a number of other spies, Leon and Liesl, made those in charge aware of the plan. With lots of frightening incidents, the story increases the anger, mind control, and the way people tend to ignore what is right in front of their eyes. As we watch the rise of Antisemitism in our own time, this book reinforces the concept that history can indeed repeat itself. Ignorance will never be bliss if we ignore situations that present a present danger to everyone's freedom and liberty. Hard as it was to believe, Nazism ran rampant through Los Angeles. Might be hard to believe that this was the case in pre war 1930's.
Thank you to Stephanie Landsem, Dreamscape Audio, narrted by Cady Zuckerman, and Neil Hellegers, and NetGalley for the audio of this fascinating but scary story, published on March 7, 2023.
It was a frightening but true story of a lawyer Leon Lewis, a Jew, recognizes the danger and can't seem to convince the powers that be that the danger was just waiting to pounce. Liesl Weiss is a secretary, who worked at MGM, and as the times become more desperate because of the Great Depression, loses her job. Leisl is a single parent, a mother of two, who needed the job. When she loses her job, she allies herself with Leon Lewis to spy on her German American neighbors. Liesl's brother is troubled and seems to be going towards the Nazi friends and psychology of hate. Aligned with the mysterious Agent Thirteen, Liesl both become aware of how strong the plan is for the takeover.
With this information and a number of other spies, Leon and Liesl, made those in charge aware of the plan. With lots of frightening incidents, the story increases the anger, mind control, and the way people tend to ignore what is right in front of their eyes. As we watch the rise of Antisemitism in our own time, this book reinforces the concept that history can indeed repeat itself. Ignorance will never be bliss if we ignore situations that present a present danger to everyone's freedom and liberty. Hard as it was to believe, Nazism ran rampant through Los Angeles. Might be hard to believe that this was the case in pre war 1930's.
Thank you to Stephanie Landsem, Dreamscape Audio, narrted by Cady Zuckerman, and Neil Hellegers, and NetGalley for the audio of this fascinating but scary story, published on March 7, 2023.
January 29, 2023
Something about reading Stephanie Landsem's latest novel feels as though you're living through the horror of that time. We've all read books where Jews hide from Nazi oppressors, but in Code Name Edelweiss, the oppressors are... us. Our neighbors. Our friends. And worse than that, as Leisl learns, the oppressor can even be ourselves when we ignore what is happening around us--when we keep silent. When we refuse to act to protect those whose voices are being silenced.
This book became more and more intense with every page, and oh, how I loved that Landsem didn't spare anyone the ugliness of the Nazi ideology that threatened America, too. The fallout reached into every home, every person, every neighborhood.
Using stunning writing, rich, engaging characterization, and a heartbreaking story that demands we sit up and take notice, Stephanie Landsem issues a challenge to each reader. There's a time to speak--that time is now. Will you be silent and let evil win?
This book became more and more intense with every page, and oh, how I loved that Landsem didn't spare anyone the ugliness of the Nazi ideology that threatened America, too. The fallout reached into every home, every person, every neighborhood.
Using stunning writing, rich, engaging characterization, and a heartbreaking story that demands we sit up and take notice, Stephanie Landsem issues a challenge to each reader. There's a time to speak--that time is now. Will you be silent and let evil win?
August 28, 2023
“If not us Who? If not now When?�
Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem is a story taking place in early 1930’s -United States. One of racism-hate-fear mongering-espionage. A story I never read of before or thought about. Pre-WW2. Hitler was riding in power in Germany. The hate and rhetoric had reached an all time high in the United States. A story of amateur spies watching for the wanna-be Nazi’s to take over Hollywood. As more go undercover to protect the Jewish people, Leisl whose husband has disappeared leaving her to care for their 2 children on her own joins the ranks. And from there it is action filled with drama and a wee bit of romance as well. Dare I ask? Is history repeating itself?
Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem is a story taking place in early 1930’s -United States. One of racism-hate-fear mongering-espionage. A story I never read of before or thought about. Pre-WW2. Hitler was riding in power in Germany. The hate and rhetoric had reached an all time high in the United States. A story of amateur spies watching for the wanna-be Nazi’s to take over Hollywood. As more go undercover to protect the Jewish people, Leisl whose husband has disappeared leaving her to care for their 2 children on her own joins the ranks. And from there it is action filled with drama and a wee bit of romance as well. Dare I ask? Is history repeating itself?
July 13, 2023
Intriguing, this story ranks as a top 10 for 2023. I listened to this one on audio and the narration is fantastic. The twist of this WW2 novel is that it's in the early stages of the Nazi rise and takes place in Los Angeles giving a unique perspective on how the Jewish people were being treated in America and the growth of anti-semitism. The characters were very well developed and added extra substance to the already gripping plot line. The messages of faith, moral and ethical resistance, redemption, and forgiveness were layered exceptionally well, making this an easy 5* and highly recommended read.
March 6, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
*The main guy has a doggy named Lady. My doggy's name is Lady.🥹*
"If not me, who? If not now, when?"
This is a not a book about endings. Its talk leaves the continuation of what is to be one of the darkest times humanity has ever experienced. It's not a fiction novel about the end of this terror, but a truth about the beginning and the injustice of it that awaits in the near future.
Our MC, a badass single mother of two, puts everything at risk to the cause. First, for the money, in desperate need to keep her family safe, and later, also for the people she cares about that might need a voice in their battle.
Through her, we learn how dangerous silence is, how shady the human nature is and how even though it might not be YOUR cause, you're part of something: a community, friendship, family that might need your hand in theirs. "I would fight this war. I would not be silent."
And while one person can't change the world, they can surely contribute to making it a better place from those who wish it harm.
Because if not me or you, who?
Even if the story seems like it doesn't go anywhere, it is by no means static. It just shows a glimpse of hope the people had on changing something that could go from bad to worse. It shows how, in a moment in time, somewhere in the 1930s, people tried to move the course of a nightmare, from stopping it before it struck an entire nation. This book is a glimpse in time, when people were just being people. Whether bad or good, the human nature was depicted in the small lenses of the Interwar Period.
Now, I'm not a very historical fiction gal. Especially when it comes to books set in the Nazi period; maybe because it makes me uncomfortable, maybe because I, myself, live in a country that, in my parents's childhood, was covered in communism, maybe because I'm a history major in high school and I already struggle with these topics, but believe me when I say I do not regret reading this book.
It is on a slower pace, I admit, but the spy-thriller aspect kept me intrigued. I don't know how much of this is fiction and how much really happened, but the author made me actually believe through her writing that every scene and all characters were once real. For my historical people out there, this is for you:)
*The main guy has a doggy named Lady. My doggy's name is Lady.🥹*
"If not me, who? If not now, when?"
This is a not a book about endings. Its talk leaves the continuation of what is to be one of the darkest times humanity has ever experienced. It's not a fiction novel about the end of this terror, but a truth about the beginning and the injustice of it that awaits in the near future.
Our MC, a badass single mother of two, puts everything at risk to the cause. First, for the money, in desperate need to keep her family safe, and later, also for the people she cares about that might need a voice in their battle.
Through her, we learn how dangerous silence is, how shady the human nature is and how even though it might not be YOUR cause, you're part of something: a community, friendship, family that might need your hand in theirs. "I would fight this war. I would not be silent."
And while one person can't change the world, they can surely contribute to making it a better place from those who wish it harm.
Because if not me or you, who?
Even if the story seems like it doesn't go anywhere, it is by no means static. It just shows a glimpse of hope the people had on changing something that could go from bad to worse. It shows how, in a moment in time, somewhere in the 1930s, people tried to move the course of a nightmare, from stopping it before it struck an entire nation. This book is a glimpse in time, when people were just being people. Whether bad or good, the human nature was depicted in the small lenses of the Interwar Period.
Now, I'm not a very historical fiction gal. Especially when it comes to books set in the Nazi period; maybe because it makes me uncomfortable, maybe because I, myself, live in a country that, in my parents's childhood, was covered in communism, maybe because I'm a history major in high school and I already struggle with these topics, but believe me when I say I do not regret reading this book.
It is on a slower pace, I admit, but the spy-thriller aspect kept me intrigued. I don't know how much of this is fiction and how much really happened, but the author made me actually believe through her writing that every scene and all characters were once real. For my historical people out there, this is for you:)
June 20, 2023
4.5⭐Early 1930s. During the great depression. A highly engaging fictional story based on historical events. A true story of a group of amateur spies who discovered Hitler’s plans to take over Hollywood. How fascism-the evil of Europe ran rampant in Los Angeles, pre-WW2. There is a lot to like about this story, the setting, the characters, the twists and turns, intrigue and suspense, the light on the romance, the mystery, and the detailed research that went into creating this story. The plot of the story is full of action. A little slow to start but is worth it keep reading until the end. Did you know German-American spies planned to take over Hollywood in the 1930s?.... I question whether History is repeating itself --right before our eyes.
Thank you, NetGalley and Tyndale House for the advance eARC. all opinions are my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Tyndale House for the advance eARC. all opinions are my own.
April 8, 2023
A thrilling mystery that kept me on my toes, and taught me about a part of history I didn't know! I adored the characters; Liesl is one of the best female protagonists I've read in awhile - brave and clever and deeply rooted in love for her family. Agent 13 was intriguing from the first, and I'll admit that even I fell a little in love with him by the time the story was done. The plot kept me turning the pages long into the night; I just had to know what happened next!
I don't reach for the spy thriller genre that often, but this is now one of my favorites. Five stars from me!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
I don't reach for the spy thriller genre that often, but this is now one of my favorites. Five stars from me!
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
October 13, 2023
A piece of history I didn't know about. Stuff like this should be taught in schools.
Showing that good people can make a difference.
This was easy to fall into...it took a couple chapters to be full immersed in it.
Guessed something about one character and was pleased to see I was right.
It's terrifying to think about Them having control of the film industry during that time*shudders *
I wanted to keep going with Liesel, Wilhelm and Leon Lewis.. to hear more of what they did. Amazed at courage of them all.
Read the author's note at the end, it's worth it.
Showing that good people can make a difference.
This was easy to fall into...it took a couple chapters to be full immersed in it.
Guessed something about one character and was pleased to see I was right.
It's terrifying to think about Them having control of the film industry during that time*shudders *
I wanted to keep going with Liesel, Wilhelm and Leon Lewis.. to hear more of what they did. Amazed at courage of them all.
Read the author's note at the end, it's worth it.
February 16, 2023
Story Enjoyment Rating: 9/10 Christian Faith Rating: 3/3
I really enjoyed Code Name Edelweiss. It is a Christian, historical, mystery and suspense book.
I requested this book from NetGalley, and Tyndale House was kind enough to let me have a free ebook to read and review. I was excited to read this book because it is set in Los Angeles just before the Second World War � a time and place I knew nothing about. I believe the book releases on the 7th of March 2023.
The book follows Liesl, who is a German American working in Hollywood. She is offered a job by a Jewish lawyer to spy on the people in her community who are sympathetic to the Nazis. The story is told from her perspective (in the first person) and from the perspective of a mysterious Agent Thirteen (in the third person).
I really enjoyed the fast-paced chapters, which made the story feel like a contemporary mystery and suspense novel. The book contains spies, mysteries, hidden identities, as well as complicated family dynamics. It deals with the topic of antisemitism and the difficult choices people have to make to do the right thing. I learned a lot about the culture at that time.
The faith content stayed prominent throughout the book. Several characters were either Christian or Jewish. Faith played a large part in the way that they acted, and the events that happened had an impact on their faith.
I would definitely read more books by this author in the future. I enjoyed the writing style and the complex character relationships.
Content: contains some violence and deals with antisemitism
I really enjoyed Code Name Edelweiss. It is a Christian, historical, mystery and suspense book.
I requested this book from NetGalley, and Tyndale House was kind enough to let me have a free ebook to read and review. I was excited to read this book because it is set in Los Angeles just before the Second World War � a time and place I knew nothing about. I believe the book releases on the 7th of March 2023.
The book follows Liesl, who is a German American working in Hollywood. She is offered a job by a Jewish lawyer to spy on the people in her community who are sympathetic to the Nazis. The story is told from her perspective (in the first person) and from the perspective of a mysterious Agent Thirteen (in the third person).
I really enjoyed the fast-paced chapters, which made the story feel like a contemporary mystery and suspense novel. The book contains spies, mysteries, hidden identities, as well as complicated family dynamics. It deals with the topic of antisemitism and the difficult choices people have to make to do the right thing. I learned a lot about the culture at that time.
The faith content stayed prominent throughout the book. Several characters were either Christian or Jewish. Faith played a large part in the way that they acted, and the events that happened had an impact on their faith.
I would definitely read more books by this author in the future. I enjoyed the writing style and the complex character relationships.
Content: contains some violence and deals with antisemitism
January 24, 2023
Nazis in Hollywood? It really happened. In America’s backyard.
Stephanie Landsem’s upcoming historical fiction is set in 1930s Los Angeles and is based on a true and little-known story of the rise of Nazism in America.
Code Name Edelweiss is a fictionalized account of how a Jewish lawyer, Leon Lewis, and his private network of Christian spies foiled Hitler’s plans to take over Hollywood. It’s amazing to think that despite the authorities not taking Leon’s warnings seriously, he bolstered enough courage to assemble a group to thwart Nazi terror. Hitler had wanted to gain control of the Jewish-run Hollywood movie studios in order to spread his anti-Semitic propaganda. Lewis� network infiltrated the growing fascist groups and worked together to stop the Nazi plans.
You’ll love Liesl Wiess and her courageous steps to uncover the Nazis infiltrating her German community in Los Angeles. She’s a single mother of two children and is struggling to support her family, her outspoken mother and her troubled brother. Not only that, her husband is missing. When she becomes jobless and has no money to support them, she’s forced to join forces with Leon. I loved the portrayal of this mother, felt her anxiety and wrestled alongside her as she faced her fears head-on.
You’ll be amazed at how a group of amateur people, a wonderful mix of Jewish and Christian German Americans, worked together for democracy.
In this clean read, Landsem explores grace, trust, and abandonment and showcases brotherly Christian love in the face of fear.
“We must not meet that fear with anger, no matter how angry we are, for that only fuels the fire. Perhaps only love can change their minds.�
You’ll be in awe of the gorgeous cover!
I was gifted this copy by Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Stephanie Landsem’s upcoming historical fiction is set in 1930s Los Angeles and is based on a true and little-known story of the rise of Nazism in America.
Code Name Edelweiss is a fictionalized account of how a Jewish lawyer, Leon Lewis, and his private network of Christian spies foiled Hitler’s plans to take over Hollywood. It’s amazing to think that despite the authorities not taking Leon’s warnings seriously, he bolstered enough courage to assemble a group to thwart Nazi terror. Hitler had wanted to gain control of the Jewish-run Hollywood movie studios in order to spread his anti-Semitic propaganda. Lewis� network infiltrated the growing fascist groups and worked together to stop the Nazi plans.
You’ll love Liesl Wiess and her courageous steps to uncover the Nazis infiltrating her German community in Los Angeles. She’s a single mother of two children and is struggling to support her family, her outspoken mother and her troubled brother. Not only that, her husband is missing. When she becomes jobless and has no money to support them, she’s forced to join forces with Leon. I loved the portrayal of this mother, felt her anxiety and wrestled alongside her as she faced her fears head-on.
You’ll be amazed at how a group of amateur people, a wonderful mix of Jewish and Christian German Americans, worked together for democracy.
In this clean read, Landsem explores grace, trust, and abandonment and showcases brotherly Christian love in the face of fear.
“We must not meet that fear with anger, no matter how angry we are, for that only fuels the fire. Perhaps only love can change their minds.�
You’ll be in awe of the gorgeous cover!
I was gifted this copy by Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 20, 2023
Such a great story! I love that this WWII adjacent story offers a unique perspective to the rise of Nazism in the '30s, especially in America! It was just the right amount of suspenseful for me and not too intense, but enough to keep my fingers itching to turn the pages.
might polish this up a bit more later... until then, click if you'd like to see an aesthetic board i put together for the book.☺️
might polish this up a bit more later... until then, click if you'd like to see an aesthetic board i put together for the book.☺️
March 7, 2023
“If not me, then who? If not now, when?�
This is my first book by Stephanie Landsem and certainly won’t be my last. I was first drawn to Code Name Edelweiss by the gorgeous cover. When I found out it was based on a true story of Nazis in Hollywood, I jumped at the chance to listen. One determined Jewish lawyer, a courageous German American woman, and a handsome FBI agent race against time to thwart Hitler’s plans for Hollywood in this suspenseful, intriguing story.
It’s 1933 and the height of the Great Depression. As rumors abound regarding what’s going on in Germany, residents of Los Angeles� German Town face growing unease. As the sole support of her family, Liesl Weiss is devastated when she’s let go from her secretarial job at MGM. When a job interview unexpectedly turns out to be a recruitment for her to become a spy, she must decide if she’s willing to risk her life to thwart Hitler’s plans for America.
Loved this slow burn romantic suspense! The romance develops gradually as Liesl and Agent 13 work together. I loved Liesl. She’s an amazingly strong woman who really grows as the story progresses. At first, she agrees to spy solely to support her family, but as she witnesses the growing antisemitism towards the Jews, she becomes even more dedicated to her job. She also faces difficulties at home with a mother and two small children to support after her husband disappeared, and a brother whose allegiances put her in danger. As the new secretary for the Friends of New Germany, an organization linked to Nazi Germany, she walks a tightrope trying to glean information while keeping her cover intact.
In addition to Liesl, we get Agent 13’s POV. He’s also working undercover, but his identity is not revealed until later in the story. He struggles with past losses and doesn’t think himself capable of being a family man. When he meets Liesl, his views begin to change especially as he becomes closer to her and her family.
The audiobook narration was fantastic. I enjoyed both narrators and the way they brought these characters to life. There’s just the right amount of emotion. I loved the male narrator’s deep, gravely voice.
Loved the historical aspects deftly woven into the story and found myself googling to find out fact from fiction. The suspenseful situations Liesl and Agent 13 find themselves in were nailbitters. Also enjoyed the way faith played a role for both Jews and Christians and the realistic struggles the main characters grapple with. The story ends in such a way that I hope means we’ll see more of these characters. I’m dying to know what happens next. Definitely recommend to historical & Christian fiction fans. I received an advanced complimentary audiobook from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
This is my first book by Stephanie Landsem and certainly won’t be my last. I was first drawn to Code Name Edelweiss by the gorgeous cover. When I found out it was based on a true story of Nazis in Hollywood, I jumped at the chance to listen. One determined Jewish lawyer, a courageous German American woman, and a handsome FBI agent race against time to thwart Hitler’s plans for Hollywood in this suspenseful, intriguing story.
It’s 1933 and the height of the Great Depression. As rumors abound regarding what’s going on in Germany, residents of Los Angeles� German Town face growing unease. As the sole support of her family, Liesl Weiss is devastated when she’s let go from her secretarial job at MGM. When a job interview unexpectedly turns out to be a recruitment for her to become a spy, she must decide if she’s willing to risk her life to thwart Hitler’s plans for America.
Loved this slow burn romantic suspense! The romance develops gradually as Liesl and Agent 13 work together. I loved Liesl. She’s an amazingly strong woman who really grows as the story progresses. At first, she agrees to spy solely to support her family, but as she witnesses the growing antisemitism towards the Jews, she becomes even more dedicated to her job. She also faces difficulties at home with a mother and two small children to support after her husband disappeared, and a brother whose allegiances put her in danger. As the new secretary for the Friends of New Germany, an organization linked to Nazi Germany, she walks a tightrope trying to glean information while keeping her cover intact.
In addition to Liesl, we get Agent 13’s POV. He’s also working undercover, but his identity is not revealed until later in the story. He struggles with past losses and doesn’t think himself capable of being a family man. When he meets Liesl, his views begin to change especially as he becomes closer to her and her family.
The audiobook narration was fantastic. I enjoyed both narrators and the way they brought these characters to life. There’s just the right amount of emotion. I loved the male narrator’s deep, gravely voice.
Loved the historical aspects deftly woven into the story and found myself googling to find out fact from fiction. The suspenseful situations Liesl and Agent 13 find themselves in were nailbitters. Also enjoyed the way faith played a role for both Jews and Christians and the realistic struggles the main characters grapple with. The story ends in such a way that I hope means we’ll see more of these characters. I’m dying to know what happens next. Definitely recommend to historical & Christian fiction fans. I received an advanced complimentary audiobook from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
October 17, 2022
Okay, this is the best book I have read in 2022 hands down. I am a historical fiction and WWII buff anyway, so this really worked for me. What was even better was the setting - 1930s Hollywood/Los Angeles, which made it different from all of the other books I have read. I loved that it was based on an actual spy ring that uncovered plots and successfully derailed them. Talk about intrigue. And I loved how the author made some of the agents a mystery for a good chunk of the story. It kept me guessing and reading... And like a good author, she does the slow reveal and as a reader you are like... aha! So well done with the alluding and inferring through the plot. There was another element I appreciated. The author showed some of the real life trauma of those times and how negative and painful events influenced peoples' abilities to trust the people around them. This story had it all... glamour, intrigue, great characterization, a hint of romance, and historical mystery. The faith element existed as well. It was honest, and at times almost raw. I appreciated the internal conflict the characters felt toward God for a variety of reasons. It made the story feel that much more real. This book was an escape for me. Not often do I find myself so pulled into a story that it holds my attention the entire time. And the ending held a bit of promise of more to come... Hoping for a sequel.
August 4, 2023
I had my eye on this book for months before it even came out. As soon as I heard of it, I thought it sounded really exciting and interesting, especially since it's based on true events. Despite being an avid historical fiction reader, I had no idea that Hitler attempted to take over Hollywood and use it as a propaganda machine before the start of WWII.
My mom also was interested and actually tried to read it first. Notice that I said "tried." While she found the story interesting, she couldn't stand reading about all the Nazi stuff that was going on. It was too upsetting for her. I didn't think it would bother me, but I actually struggled with the first half of the book once I picked it up, too. The Nazi ideology is on full display in this book. We as readers, (and the main characters), are meant to recognize it for the vile evil that it is, but my goodness, it's sooooooo angering to see what those people believed and the horrible lies and harm they spread with no regret. I also didn't care for how often Liesel got leered at/harassed by various men. Unfortunately, I've read that the Hollywood/California culture back then was often like that for women, but it doesn't make it any less infuriating to read about.
I liked the story a lot better after the turning point (a little before the halfway point in the book) when Liesel finally sees past the facade and recognizes the Nazi evil for what it is. After that, the focus was less on Nazi ideology and shifted more toward spying and thwarting the evil.
One of my favorite characters in the whole story was Agent 13. I love that the author made him mysterious to the point that even the reader doesn't know who he really is until we're given enough hints to figure it out. She also did a great job of planting red herrings so that I genuinely guessed wrong until his true identity was revealed. It's rare that I can't guess things ahead of time, so that was fun.
The parts of the story where spying was going on were also fun. I really enjoyed how Liesel and Agent 13 didn't know who each other were at first, and you keep waiting for them to figure it out even as they're working toward the same goal.
Speaking of which, I thought the romance was handled super well. Given the fact that our love interests didn't know each other weren't real Nazi's I was so happy that the author didn't try to push them together too soon. They were attracted to each other, but it was realistic that they stayed apart until they could trust each other. No obsessive thoughts, no drooling over each other, no flirting with someone who could be dangerous. It was slow and realistic and I really liked that.
The ending was really good, too. So exciting! After a certain point I really had trouble putting the book down and I loved how things wrapped up in the end. The author's note at the end was especially interesting since it showed what (and who) was real and what was made up. I love when historical authors share their research like that.
Overall, this was a great book. My anger caused by reading about the Nazi ideology and many instances of Liesel being sexually harassed made it less fully enjoyable than I had hoped. But as far as being a solid historical suspense book with tons of exciting mystery, and which also handled the romance very well, it did its job. It was my first read by this author and I'll be looking into more of her books in the future.
Content Advisory:
Language: No swearing, but some characters who are sympathetic to the Nazi cause use slurs for Jewish people several times near the beginning of the book.
Spiritual:
Both main characters start out questioning their beliefs in God, but end the story having recognized God's workmanship and calling in their lives.
Nazis call themselves "good Christians" (and "good Americans") for doing the vile things they do, but this is shown to be extremely untrue as their actions go directly against Biblical beliefs. They don't care at all about God's laws.
Violence: There are more threats of violence than acts of violence, however, some violence does occur.
The threats of violence are against anyone who stands against the Nazis: men, women, or children, so long as it furthers their cause. And of course, they make many threats against Jewish people and make plans to kill people en mass.
One man who is identified as a spy working against the Nazis goes missing from work and is discovered in the hospital having been beaten bloody. (The beating occurs off the page. His injuries are briefly described.)
Someone's house gets set on fire with a grenade and gas bomb. Three children are seriously injured to the point that two are knocked unconscious, but not killed. Their injuries are described, but are not graphic.
Someone gets shot in the torso, but survives. Blood on a shirt is described.
Someone gets shot in the leg and there's passing mention of blood as the person staunches the wound.
Two men get in a scuffle and fall down some steps. One gets grazed on the arm by a bullet and blood and pain are described.
Sexual:
The actual romance of the book is squeaky clean and so slow burn that they haven't even kissed by the end of the book (This is wise because for more than half the book, Liesl and Agent Thirteen have no idea that the other person is an ally. No reckless choices here.) They are physically and emotionally attracted to each other, but it's not the obsessive thoughts that you find in some other romances. The most they do is hold hands, and by the end of the book they're officially starting to see each other as a couple.
It appears briefly as if Agent 13 may have had a child out of wedlock, but this isn't true.
Throughout the book, Liesl gets repeatedly leered at by various men. The book opens on such a scene where her boss at the movie studio is leering at her, then forces a kiss on her. (After she gets laid off from her job, she returns and slaps him.)
A Nazi tries to sexually assault a waitress (someone witnesses him trying to force a kiss on her while she struggles) but he gets punched unconscious before he can do anything more.
One married Nazi keeps making passes at Liesel at her volunteer job. Liesel's chapter's are written in first person POV, but she speaks of many of these incidents after the fact rather than the reader having to read them all as they happen. She mentions that the man pinched her bottom once, and flirting when his wife isn't around. Twice, we read of him cornering her when he catches her alone. In on of these instances he starts to unbutton her shirt before she escapes. In the second instance he forces a kiss on her before someone else walks into the room. Because she must keep the job in order to spy on the Nazis, she can't do anything about it except avoid him when she can. She fears he may escalate further at some point, but this is ultimately avoided.
Yet another man leers at Liesel at a Nazi gathering when she wears a certain dress that compliments her figure. She decides never to wear it again. She later manipulates this same man for crucial information about a planned attack against the Jews by wearing the dress and inviting him to meet her at a restaurant where she records the conversation. He leers at her the whole time, stares at her cleavage, and repeatedly kisses her hand. After he's told her of the attack, he implies he wants to take her to a hotel room to be alone. A fellow spy helps her escape the situation.
Other: Many people smoke, including Agent Thirteen who clearly is addicted to cigarettes. The story doesn't glamorize or condemn it. It's simply accurate to the time in which the story is set, when people didn't realize how dangerous smoking was.
Characters sometimes drink alcohol in social settings.
My mom also was interested and actually tried to read it first. Notice that I said "tried." While she found the story interesting, she couldn't stand reading about all the Nazi stuff that was going on. It was too upsetting for her. I didn't think it would bother me, but I actually struggled with the first half of the book once I picked it up, too. The Nazi ideology is on full display in this book. We as readers, (and the main characters), are meant to recognize it for the vile evil that it is, but my goodness, it's sooooooo angering to see what those people believed and the horrible lies and harm they spread with no regret. I also didn't care for how often Liesel got leered at/harassed by various men. Unfortunately, I've read that the Hollywood/California culture back then was often like that for women, but it doesn't make it any less infuriating to read about.
I liked the story a lot better after the turning point (a little before the halfway point in the book) when Liesel finally sees past the facade and recognizes the Nazi evil for what it is. After that, the focus was less on Nazi ideology and shifted more toward spying and thwarting the evil.
One of my favorite characters in the whole story was Agent 13. I love that the author made him mysterious to the point that even the reader doesn't know who he really is until we're given enough hints to figure it out. She also did a great job of planting red herrings so that I genuinely guessed wrong until his true identity was revealed. It's rare that I can't guess things ahead of time, so that was fun.
The parts of the story where spying was going on were also fun. I really enjoyed how Liesel and Agent 13 didn't know who each other were at first, and you keep waiting for them to figure it out even as they're working toward the same goal.
Speaking of which, I thought the romance was handled super well. Given the fact that our love interests didn't know each other weren't real Nazi's I was so happy that the author didn't try to push them together too soon. They were attracted to each other, but it was realistic that they stayed apart until they could trust each other. No obsessive thoughts, no drooling over each other, no flirting with someone who could be dangerous. It was slow and realistic and I really liked that.
The ending was really good, too. So exciting! After a certain point I really had trouble putting the book down and I loved how things wrapped up in the end. The author's note at the end was especially interesting since it showed what (and who) was real and what was made up. I love when historical authors share their research like that.
Overall, this was a great book. My anger caused by reading about the Nazi ideology and many instances of Liesel being sexually harassed made it less fully enjoyable than I had hoped. But as far as being a solid historical suspense book with tons of exciting mystery, and which also handled the romance very well, it did its job. It was my first read by this author and I'll be looking into more of her books in the future.
Content Advisory:
Language: No swearing, but some characters who are sympathetic to the Nazi cause use slurs for Jewish people several times near the beginning of the book.
Spiritual:
Both main characters start out questioning their beliefs in God, but end the story having recognized God's workmanship and calling in their lives.
Nazis call themselves "good Christians" (and "good Americans") for doing the vile things they do, but this is shown to be extremely untrue as their actions go directly against Biblical beliefs. They don't care at all about God's laws.
Violence: There are more threats of violence than acts of violence, however, some violence does occur.
The threats of violence are against anyone who stands against the Nazis: men, women, or children, so long as it furthers their cause. And of course, they make many threats against Jewish people and make plans to kill people en mass.
One man who is identified as a spy working against the Nazis goes missing from work and is discovered in the hospital having been beaten bloody. (The beating occurs off the page. His injuries are briefly described.)
Someone's house gets set on fire with a grenade and gas bomb. Three children are seriously injured to the point that two are knocked unconscious, but not killed. Their injuries are described, but are not graphic.
Someone gets shot in the torso, but survives. Blood on a shirt is described.
Someone gets shot in the leg and there's passing mention of blood as the person staunches the wound.
Two men get in a scuffle and fall down some steps. One gets grazed on the arm by a bullet and blood and pain are described.
Sexual:
The actual romance of the book is squeaky clean and so slow burn that they haven't even kissed by the end of the book (This is wise because for more than half the book, Liesl and Agent Thirteen have no idea that the other person is an ally. No reckless choices here.) They are physically and emotionally attracted to each other, but it's not the obsessive thoughts that you find in some other romances. The most they do is hold hands, and by the end of the book they're officially starting to see each other as a couple.
It appears briefly as if Agent 13 may have had a child out of wedlock, but this isn't true.
Throughout the book, Liesl gets repeatedly leered at by various men. The book opens on such a scene where her boss at the movie studio is leering at her, then forces a kiss on her. (After she gets laid off from her job, she returns and slaps him.)
A Nazi tries to sexually assault a waitress (someone witnesses him trying to force a kiss on her while she struggles) but he gets punched unconscious before he can do anything more.
One married Nazi keeps making passes at Liesel at her volunteer job. Liesel's chapter's are written in first person POV, but she speaks of many of these incidents after the fact rather than the reader having to read them all as they happen. She mentions that the man pinched her bottom once, and flirting when his wife isn't around. Twice, we read of him cornering her when he catches her alone. In on of these instances he starts to unbutton her shirt before she escapes. In the second instance he forces a kiss on her before someone else walks into the room. Because she must keep the job in order to spy on the Nazis, she can't do anything about it except avoid him when she can. She fears he may escalate further at some point, but this is ultimately avoided.
Yet another man leers at Liesel at a Nazi gathering when she wears a certain dress that compliments her figure. She decides never to wear it again. She later manipulates this same man for crucial information about a planned attack against the Jews by wearing the dress and inviting him to meet her at a restaurant where she records the conversation. He leers at her the whole time, stares at her cleavage, and repeatedly kisses her hand. After he's told her of the attack, he implies he wants to take her to a hotel room to be alone. A fellow spy helps her escape the situation.
Other: Many people smoke, including Agent Thirteen who clearly is addicted to cigarettes. The story doesn't glamorize or condemn it. It's simply accurate to the time in which the story is set, when people didn't realize how dangerous smoking was.
Characters sometimes drink alcohol in social settings.
January 9, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley & Tyndale House Publishers for an eARC of this book. The following review is my honest reflection on the text provided.
3.5 stars
This historical fiction and spy thriller mashup had some good moments but seemed to take a long time to go nowhere in particular.
The most exciting part of Code Name Edelweiss is finding out that Lewis was a real person, trying to prevent the events of WWII and Hitler’s legacy as a Jewish lawyer in California. That awareness and gumption is incredible; it makes me want to have loved this story more. Maybe if he had been more prominent, I would have felt differently.
Leisl and Wilhelm were interesting but too stiff. They were only allowed to have certain characteristics and rarely strayed. Intensely organised and harshly aloof are challenging personalities to maintain, especially when acting as spies, but they seem to manage.
In the end, it’s a big buildup for a bit of a kerfuffle which doesn’t go anywhere. There are too many inconsistencies to explain away, and it’s hard to drill down to the narrative's point other than the painfully obvious �Nazis are bad�. I’m sure you’re supposed to take away this 'stand up for the downtrodden' and 'if not me, then who' stuff, but honestly, Wilhelm and Liesl aren’t convincing bearers of this message. Besides, they may be the worst spies ever. Every one of their plots would have failed immediately in the real world, and the Nazis would have seen right through them.
With simultaneously too much and not enough going on, this was a difficult read at times. In the end, it was probably more good than bad, but I can’t say it’s the most successful WWII fiction I’ve read - though it does claim some respect as a unique angle. With some editing and a more pointed direction, I think Code Name Edelweiss would have been much more successful.
Review originally posted on Britt's Book Blurbs.
3.5 stars
This historical fiction and spy thriller mashup had some good moments but seemed to take a long time to go nowhere in particular.
The most exciting part of Code Name Edelweiss is finding out that Lewis was a real person, trying to prevent the events of WWII and Hitler’s legacy as a Jewish lawyer in California. That awareness and gumption is incredible; it makes me want to have loved this story more. Maybe if he had been more prominent, I would have felt differently.
Leisl and Wilhelm were interesting but too stiff. They were only allowed to have certain characteristics and rarely strayed. Intensely organised and harshly aloof are challenging personalities to maintain, especially when acting as spies, but they seem to manage.
In the end, it’s a big buildup for a bit of a kerfuffle which doesn’t go anywhere. There are too many inconsistencies to explain away, and it’s hard to drill down to the narrative's point other than the painfully obvious �Nazis are bad�. I’m sure you’re supposed to take away this 'stand up for the downtrodden' and 'if not me, then who' stuff, but honestly, Wilhelm and Liesl aren’t convincing bearers of this message. Besides, they may be the worst spies ever. Every one of their plots would have failed immediately in the real world, and the Nazis would have seen right through them.
With simultaneously too much and not enough going on, this was a difficult read at times. In the end, it was probably more good than bad, but I can’t say it’s the most successful WWII fiction I’ve read - though it does claim some respect as a unique angle. With some editing and a more pointed direction, I think Code Name Edelweiss would have been much more successful.
Review originally posted on Britt's Book Blurbs.
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June 9, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC of Code Name Edelweiss.
This story about combines both struggles of a mother in the US during the 1930s, and the spies that were in the US trying to stop Hitler's influence in the US (based on real events). I found this story to be absolutely fascinating. I was not aware of how bad the antisemitism was in the US during the 1930s (especially in a place like California), and that it was very similar to what was going on in Germany. This book will be a very interesting read for any historical fiction-buff.
This story about combines both struggles of a mother in the US during the 1930s, and the spies that were in the US trying to stop Hitler's influence in the US (based on real events). I found this story to be absolutely fascinating. I was not aware of how bad the antisemitism was in the US during the 1930s (especially in a place like California), and that it was very similar to what was going on in Germany. This book will be a very interesting read for any historical fiction-buff.
April 23, 2023
This book captivated me from the first page. What a terrifying and yet fascinating story--I didn't know that Hitler and the Nazis tried to take over Hollywood in the early 30s, and might have succeeded if not for a tiny fledgling spy network run by a heroic Jewish man. The author does a superb job bringing this piece of history to life, combining the true story with a sympathetic fictitious heroine and hero, and giving them both a meaningful faith arc at the same time. There are so many frightening elements of the story that are being continued and repeated in society today, which added to the drama and horror.
The book was so well written that I felt I was there, living at that time. The suspense built with every page. I like that the heroine was a blue-eyed blonde of German descent, who had to go through a huge learning curve to wake up to the ugliness of the Nazi ideology that threatened America (and which readers know would soon become the Holocaust). The writing is beautiful, the characters are extremely well-drawn, and although the story is heartbreaking, we are left with hope for its main characters. The author challenges not just her hero and heroine but also her readers, reminding us that the time to speak and act against evil is now. If not me, then who? If not now, when?
The book was so well written that I felt I was there, living at that time. The suspense built with every page. I like that the heroine was a blue-eyed blonde of German descent, who had to go through a huge learning curve to wake up to the ugliness of the Nazi ideology that threatened America (and which readers know would soon become the Holocaust). The writing is beautiful, the characters are extremely well-drawn, and although the story is heartbreaking, we are left with hope for its main characters. The author challenges not just her hero and heroine but also her readers, reminding us that the time to speak and act against evil is now. If not me, then who? If not now, when?
February 18, 2023
During the depression as Hitler started putting his plan in place to take over Europe, he was also working on a plan to take over the United States starting with Hollywood. People were out of work and it was easy to convince them that the Jewish people were the reason that times were so bad. In Hollywood, many of the movie studios were owned by Jewish people who had lots of money. If Hitler could push his agenda in this area of American life, he was confident that he could control the country. This book is based on a true story about a Jewish lawyer and a group of amateur spies who foiled Hitler's plan for America.
Liesl is the daughter of German immigrants. She lives in a German community with her two children and her mother. She tells everyone that she's a widow because its more acceptable than admitting that her husband left her and she has no idea where he is. She has a good secretarial job at MGM studios but when she's fired, she struggles to find a job. It's the depression and the few available jobs are given to men and not women - even though Liesl is the sole supporter of her small family. She hears about a job with a lawyer and when she applies, she's told that she's not what he was looking for....however, he wanted to recruit her as a spy for reporting on the rise of fascism in her German neighborhood. Her assignment was to work as a secretary at an office where a group of Nazi sympathizers is working to get more members in their group. She has no idea of who else is in the spy network and learns to trust no one. As she gets deeper into this group, she is appalled at their beliefs and their plans for America and works hard to make a difference. What started out as a job to make money to feed her family, ended up as a plan working to end the anti-Jewish movement in Hollywood.
This story was a bit slow in the beginning but keep on reading -- it gets a lot more exciting and is well worth the read. From a personal viewpoint, I knew that there were Nazi sympathizers in America but I had no idea that there was such a concentrated effort to influence Americans to support Hitler. This book was well written and well researched and a real eye-opener for me. It has intrigue, a bit of romance and a lot of bravery by the people working on the spy network.
Liesl is the daughter of German immigrants. She lives in a German community with her two children and her mother. She tells everyone that she's a widow because its more acceptable than admitting that her husband left her and she has no idea where he is. She has a good secretarial job at MGM studios but when she's fired, she struggles to find a job. It's the depression and the few available jobs are given to men and not women - even though Liesl is the sole supporter of her small family. She hears about a job with a lawyer and when she applies, she's told that she's not what he was looking for....however, he wanted to recruit her as a spy for reporting on the rise of fascism in her German neighborhood. Her assignment was to work as a secretary at an office where a group of Nazi sympathizers is working to get more members in their group. She has no idea of who else is in the spy network and learns to trust no one. As she gets deeper into this group, she is appalled at their beliefs and their plans for America and works hard to make a difference. What started out as a job to make money to feed her family, ended up as a plan working to end the anti-Jewish movement in Hollywood.
This story was a bit slow in the beginning but keep on reading -- it gets a lot more exciting and is well worth the read. From a personal viewpoint, I knew that there were Nazi sympathizers in America but I had no idea that there was such a concentrated effort to influence Americans to support Hitler. This book was well written and well researched and a real eye-opener for me. It has intrigue, a bit of romance and a lot of bravery by the people working on the spy network.
July 4, 2023
I suspect this book will be on my list of favorite new reads for this year. It is enthralling! I was especially fascinated by the historical notes at the end, which talked about the real history of Leon Lewis and his tireless efforts to stop Nazis from infiltrating the movie industry and Californian culture.
Landsem's writing style was engaging and appealing, and I loved the wealth of historical details that really made the story come alive. The message of how good people need to stand up for what is good and decry what is bad was also very timely. But it was the characters, particularly the mysterious Agent Thirteen, that I loved the best.
Landsem's writing style was engaging and appealing, and I loved the wealth of historical details that really made the story come alive. The message of how good people need to stand up for what is good and decry what is bad was also very timely. But it was the characters, particularly the mysterious Agent Thirteen, that I loved the best.
March 2, 2023
A fascinating story based on real events, this is a thought provoking look into what was going on in Los Angels in 1933. It was a peek into the motives and manipulations of the infiltration of National Socialism that played on the sympathies and proud heritage of German Americans.
Ms. Landsem proficiently crafts Leisl and Wilhelm who seek what is right and end up being spies working to take down factions that are set on ridding the country of Jews. They are complex characters who have to play a dangerous game. They question their actions at times but are reminded that: *Silence is oppressive in itself* and * If not me, who? If not now, when?*
Not only are there tense moments and perilous situations, there are family concerns and soul searching about being a true friend. Throughout the story is a blossoming romance and learning the true character of those close to them and that actions have consequences sometimes to those they hold dear.
There is an underlying faith thread and the characters grapple with spiritual questions and grow into a more solid faith.
*I won this book from Library Thing. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Ms. Landsem proficiently crafts Leisl and Wilhelm who seek what is right and end up being spies working to take down factions that are set on ridding the country of Jews. They are complex characters who have to play a dangerous game. They question their actions at times but are reminded that: *Silence is oppressive in itself* and * If not me, who? If not now, when?*
Not only are there tense moments and perilous situations, there are family concerns and soul searching about being a true friend. Throughout the story is a blossoming romance and learning the true character of those close to them and that actions have consequences sometimes to those they hold dear.
There is an underlying faith thread and the characters grapple with spiritual questions and grow into a more solid faith.
*I won this book from Library Thing. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
May 21, 2023
I truly did not want to ever stop turning the pages. Such an interesting and gripping story. I loved learning more about a piece of 1930’s Hollywood history that I wasn’t familiar with and being reminded that every decade, every generation needs average, ordinary people fighting fear and standing up for the right thing in brave and extraordinary ways.
July 26, 2023
In the summer of 1933, a man named Adolf Hitler is the new and powerful anti-Semitic chancellor of Germany. But in Los Angeles, no-nonsense secretary Liesl Weiss has concerns much closer to home. The Great Depression is tightening its grip and Liesl is the sole supporter of two children, an opinionated mother, and a troubled brother.
Leon Lewis is a Jewish lawyer who has watched Adolf Hitler’s rise to power―and the increase in anti-Semitism in America―with growing alarm. He believes Nazi agents are working to seize control of Hollywood, the greatest propaganda machine the world has ever known. The trouble is, authorities scoff at his dire warnings.
When Liesl loses her job at MGM, her only choice is to work with Leon Lewis and the mysterious Agent Thirteen to spy on her friends and neighbors in her German American community. What Leon Lewis and his spies find is more chilling―and more dangerous―than any of them suspected.
Code Name Edelweiss is based on a true story, unknown until recent years: How a lone Jewish lawyer and a handful of amateur spies discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler’s plan to take over Hollywood.
Leon Lewis is a Jewish lawyer who has watched Adolf Hitler’s rise to power―and the increase in anti-Semitism in America―with growing alarm. He believes Nazi agents are working to seize control of Hollywood, the greatest propaganda machine the world has ever known. The trouble is, authorities scoff at his dire warnings.
When Liesl loses her job at MGM, her only choice is to work with Leon Lewis and the mysterious Agent Thirteen to spy on her friends and neighbors in her German American community. What Leon Lewis and his spies find is more chilling―and more dangerous―than any of them suspected.
Code Name Edelweiss is based on a true story, unknown until recent years: How a lone Jewish lawyer and a handful of amateur spies discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler’s plan to take over Hollywood.
November 2, 2024
1933 Los Angeles
I had no idea about this slice of history. Fascinating and frightening. The cast of characters brings the emotions to life. My favorite was Agent 13.
I had no idea about this slice of history. Fascinating and frightening. The cast of characters brings the emotions to life. My favorite was Agent 13.
May 30, 2023
I am always looking for people and situations in history that I know nothing or little about. Code Name Edelweiss fit that bill perfectly. I had no idea that Hitler had tried to take over Hollywood! In 1933, Adolf Hitler is the new and powerful anti-Semitic chancellor of Germany. In the U.S. anti-Semitism is growing quickly, especially in German neighborhoods. Liesl Weiss is a secretary at MGM and is worried about her family. With the depression getting worse she needs to be able to support her two children, an opinionated mother, and a troubled brother. Leon Lewis is a Jewish lawyer who has watched Adolf Hitler's rise to power, and the increase in anti-Semitism in America. He believes Nazi agents are working to seize control of Hollywood, the greatest propaganda machine in the world, but the authorities scoff at his dire warnings. Lewis recruits a handful of amateur spies to spy on their German neighbors and report back to him. When Liesl Weiss loses her job at MGM, she has no choice but to work for Leon Lewis to support her family. Code Name Edelweiss is based on a true story, unknown until recent years about how this group discovered and foiled Adolf Hitler's plan to take over Hollywood.
I read this story with a bit of fear in my heart. Propaganda is a huge business and is still used extensively today. I know how easily something like this could happen and millions of people follow or believe something that is not true. We always say that we need to learn about our past so we don't repeat it, but honestly, I can see this happening. This is different than reading about the Jewish people being gathered up in Europe by the terrible Nazi soldiers, this is about the Jewish people being are being oppressed by their neighbors in the U.S., or the behaviour being ignored which allows it to continue, hmmm, sounds familiar. This was a tense and gripping story. Would Liesl get caught? With great characters, vivid writing and situations, the story touched me and made me uncomfortable at the same time. Will we sit back and allow groups, using propaganda and rhetoric oppress specific groups of people or do even worse? I definitely recommend this book. The audiobook was narrated by Cady Zuckerman and Neil Hellegers. I was not familiar with either of these voice actors, but they did an excellent job. I always enjoy when a book has two narrators, one male, one female to give more natural voices to the characters. They did a wonderful job with the voices and accents and brought this story to life. I know I enjoyed it more due to their performances.
I read this story with a bit of fear in my heart. Propaganda is a huge business and is still used extensively today. I know how easily something like this could happen and millions of people follow or believe something that is not true. We always say that we need to learn about our past so we don't repeat it, but honestly, I can see this happening. This is different than reading about the Jewish people being gathered up in Europe by the terrible Nazi soldiers, this is about the Jewish people being are being oppressed by their neighbors in the U.S., or the behaviour being ignored which allows it to continue, hmmm, sounds familiar. This was a tense and gripping story. Would Liesl get caught? With great characters, vivid writing and situations, the story touched me and made me uncomfortable at the same time. Will we sit back and allow groups, using propaganda and rhetoric oppress specific groups of people or do even worse? I definitely recommend this book. The audiobook was narrated by Cady Zuckerman and Neil Hellegers. I was not familiar with either of these voice actors, but they did an excellent job. I always enjoy when a book has two narrators, one male, one female to give more natural voices to the characters. They did a wonderful job with the voices and accents and brought this story to life. I know I enjoyed it more due to their performances.
February 11, 2023
Fantastic! I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging historical fiction about a little known time in our history where a lone Jewish lawyer and his group of amateur spies work to stop Nazi infiltration in Los Angeles. Author Stephanie Landsem weaves a brilliant story, and challenges the readers to to not be silent in the face of evil around us. And "to move past fear with courage and love", love for our families and friends, love for those different from us, and love for our enemies. I highly recommend this excellent historical fiction.
"What I am looking for-what I desperately need, Mrs. Weiss-is a spy." "Believe me, Mrs. Weiss, this hatred has come into Los Angeles. And Adolf Hitler will not stop there."
"We're on the right side of this, have faith in that."
"If not me, who? If not now, when?"
"Adolf Hitler and his religion of anti-Semitism was not a Jewish problem. It was my problem. And if good people did nothing, the evil around us would continue to grow and flourish."
So many similarities between current times and Nazi Germany. Misguided purpose makes something sound good that's really evil.
Another important takeaway for me was to really love those that are on a wrong path instead of getting angry.
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. I'm looking forward to my pre-ordered copy to arrive from Baker Book House.
"What I am looking for-what I desperately need, Mrs. Weiss-is a spy." "Believe me, Mrs. Weiss, this hatred has come into Los Angeles. And Adolf Hitler will not stop there."
"We're on the right side of this, have faith in that."
"If not me, who? If not now, when?"
"Adolf Hitler and his religion of anti-Semitism was not a Jewish problem. It was my problem. And if good people did nothing, the evil around us would continue to grow and flourish."
So many similarities between current times and Nazi Germany. Misguided purpose makes something sound good that's really evil.
Another important takeaway for me was to really love those that are on a wrong path instead of getting angry.
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. I'm looking forward to my pre-ordered copy to arrive from Baker Book House.
March 27, 2023
If you love historical mysteries and espionage, then look no further. Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem is the book for you. This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I found myself hard-pressed to put it down. The book had heart-in-your-throat danger, family drama and even hints of romance as well. Trust me, you will love this emotional, moving story just as I did!!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 18, 2023
This didn't need the romance, it detracted from the actual plot of the book.
Not sure how Liesel is plausible spy, she's rather oblivious about her surroundings and blind to the antisemitism of her community, including her own family.
I'm reminded why I've moved away from Christian fiction, the few Christian elements felt like an afterthought.
Not sure how Liesel is plausible spy, she's rather oblivious about her surroundings and blind to the antisemitism of her community, including her own family.
I'm reminded why I've moved away from Christian fiction, the few Christian elements felt like an afterthought.
November 21, 2023
Amazing. Moving. Heartbreaking. Hopeful. This book has everything.
October 8, 2022
Set in the days of the Great Depression, this is the story of a young woman named Liesl Weiss, a single mom and sole support of her children, her mother, and her brother. She is recruited as a spy by Leon Lewis, a Jewish lawyer who has watched Hitler’s rise to power with great alarm.
Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem is based on a true story of a group of amateur spies who discovered Hitler’s plans to take over Hollywood. Well written, tense, and powerful, Code Name Edelweiss is full of important lessons we in the 21st century need to learn and remember.
Many thanks to Tyndale and Net Galley for my copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
Code Name Edelweiss by Stephanie Landsem is based on a true story of a group of amateur spies who discovered Hitler’s plans to take over Hollywood. Well written, tense, and powerful, Code Name Edelweiss is full of important lessons we in the 21st century need to learn and remember.
Many thanks to Tyndale and Net Galley for my copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
January 23, 2023
The author gives a story of some very brave people, yes these are fictional, but the story is based on fact, and that is scary!
So much hate for a group of people, and the evil in Europe has infiltrated the US shores. This story takes place in 1933 Los Angeles, CA, but as we read it is happening in other cities!
The author gives us people. some by accident, that end up infiltrated these radicals, and we are there to hope they are able to thwart the evil.
What a page turner this read was, and often with my heart in my throat, but I was looking for answers. and they do come, but are they the way you want them to turn out?
So glad to read this story, and hopefully it will wake people up! We need never forget! Thank you Stephanie Landsem I will be looking for more reads from you!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale, and was not required to give a positive review.
So much hate for a group of people, and the evil in Europe has infiltrated the US shores. This story takes place in 1933 Los Angeles, CA, but as we read it is happening in other cities!
The author gives us people. some by accident, that end up infiltrated these radicals, and we are there to hope they are able to thwart the evil.
What a page turner this read was, and often with my heart in my throat, but I was looking for answers. and they do come, but are they the way you want them to turn out?
So glad to read this story, and hopefully it will wake people up! We need never forget! Thank you Stephanie Landsem I will be looking for more reads from you!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale, and was not required to give a positive review.
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