The Crest is a well-researched page-turner set in Prussia, Germany in 1917. It follows the career of an idealistic, patriotic young man, Gerhard, as he leaves home to fight for Kaiser Wilhelm and the Fatherland. The story that unfolds is rich in historical detail and suspense. It was a pleasure to read Jerena Tobiasen's novel both for its vivid imagery, vibrant prose and well-developed characters.
Roberta Rich, author of "The Midwife of Venice", "The Harem Midwife" and "A Trial in Venice"
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★★★★★Indie Reader Review:
". . . a truly memorable story which will leave readers eager to read the next book in the series."
THE CREST is the first book in the sweeping Prophecy historical saga that follows the fortunes of Gerhard as he tries to keep his family together and survive the upheaval and horrors of WW1, the inter-war years and WW2. The Lange family's resilience and Gerhard's determination to keep them together makes for a truly memorable story which will leave readers eager to read the next book in the series.
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★★★★★Readers' Favorite 5-Star Review:
Jerena Tobiasen created the perfect atmosphere from the very beginning. She struck the right balance between action and pace so that the twists and turns added were logical. Everything blended seamlessly in The Crest and gave a realistic insight into what it was like to be a German at such a time. From dialogues to descriptions, the author made sure the reader was in for a roller coaster ride.
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"The Crest is an engaging family saga that spans both World Wars. The author draws readers directly into these characters' struggles both during the chaos of wartime and the years in between. We feel their pain as they're haunted by their wartime experiences and we understand completely their fervent wish to not be drawn into battle again. From the beginning we are hoping for the survival of all and are with them on their heartbreaking journeys. Well worth the read for anyone who loves multi-generational stories."
Valerie Biel, author of the award-winning Circle of Nine series.
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The Crest is an exceptionally well-written and detailed book. It follows the life of a German family through World War I and World War II--not something you read every day. The details are exquisite. I imagine that the author did a fair amount of research to get them right. If you like war stories with a human angle or sprawling family sagas, you will love this first book in the Lange family story.
Malcolm van Delst, author of "Do the Wrong Thing"
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"We find in The Crest by Jerena Tobiasen a well written novel spanning many years including the 20th century's two great world wars. It touches you deeply in its illustrations of the hardships soldiers endured in their innocent belief that they were serving their countries and the families who were waiting for their return in communities away from the killing fields. Jerena skillfully crafts representations of two such different settings to perfection: the painful and visceral realities of war, and beautiful portrayals of love, life and nurturing. Let's all encourage the latter for all of Earth. Well done and worth the read."
Nasreen Pejvack, author of Amity, Paradise of the Downcasts, and Waiting.