The Porcelain Maker by Sarah Freethy

*** Review ***

Sarah Freethy’s debut novel, The Porcelain Maker, is a mesmerizing journey through time, weaving together the lives of two passionate lovers caught in the tumultuous era of Nazi Germany and their daughter’s quest for truth in 1993 America. With a rich vocabulary that immerses readers in a world of art and emotion, Freethy’s storytelling prowess shines, making this historical fiction novel a must-read.

Set against the backdrop of 1929 Berlin, the story introduces us to Max, a Jewish architect, and Bettina, a celebrated German avant-garde artist. Their love story begins amidst the dazzling lights of the city but is soon overshadowed by the ominous rise of Nazism. Max’s arrest and subsequent internment at Dachau concentration camp put his life on the line, with only his talent for crafting exquisite porcelain figures standing between him and death. Bettina, determined to save Max at any cost, faces unimaginable challenges in her quest to keep their love alive.

In 1993, Bettina’s daughter, Clara, embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her father, a secret shrouded in mystery by her mother for reasons unknown. As Clara delves into the past, readers are transported back and forth between the two timelines, skillfully crafted by Freethy to maintain a gripping narrative flow.

One of the standout features of The Porcelain Maker is the author’s masterful use of language. Freethy’s vocabulary adds depth and texture to the narrative without overwhelming the reader. It enhances the immersive experience, allowing readers to engage with the story on an emotional and sensory level.

As someone who typically isn’t a fan of alternating between time periods in novels, I was pleasantly surprised by how seamlessly Freethy transitioned between 1923-42 and 1993. Each chapter’s conclusion left me eagerly anticipating the switch, a testament to the author’s storytelling skill. The dual timelines served to enrich the plot, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the characters’ motivations and the historical context.

The Porcelain Maker is not just another World War II historical fiction novel; it’s a tale of profound love, survival, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable darkness. Freethy’s narrative beautifully captures the essence of a time when evil reigned unchecked, forcing individuals into impossible choices for their very survival. The vivid imagery of Max’s porcelain creations, intricately woven into the story, lingers in the reader’s mind long after the final page is turned.

This debut novel left me so captivated that I found myself searching for more works by Sarah Freethy, only to discover that this was her first foray into fiction. I wholeheartedly recommend The Porcelain Maker and eagerly anticipate more from this promising author. It’s a novel that I can envision revisiting in the future, a testament to its enduring appeal.

At its core, The Porcelain Maker asks a profound question: Can art alone save us? It follows Clara Vogel’s relentless pursuit of truth, tracing the origin of a porcelain piece in the hopes of uncovering her father’s identity. Freethy skillfully intertwines Clara’s journey with the Bauhaus Movement’s timeline, featuring Max Erhlich, the Jewish architect, and Bettina Vogel, the German painter, who find solace in their art amidst the horrors of Nazi oppression.

The emotional depth of Max’s story, as he creates beauty in a place designed for destruction, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Freethy’s use of a rich lexicon adds depth to the narrative, making the story engaging for history enthusiasts and literature lovers alike. The only regret is the absence of illustrations to bring Max’s porcelain creations to life, which could have elevated the story even further.

In conclusion, The Porcelain Maker is a sweeping epic of love, betrayal, and the enduring power of art, making it a must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts. Sarah Freethy’s debut novel is a triumph, and her ability to transport readers to a world where love and creativity thrive amidst chaos is nothing short of remarkable. This book deserves a cherished place on the reading lists of all those who appreciate a beautifully crafted story that transcends time and leaves a lasting impression.