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  • Once We Were Brothers

  • Written by: Ronald H. Balson
  • Narrated by: Fred Berman
  • Length: 13 hrs and 26 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (56 ratings)

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Once We Were Brothers cover art

Once We Were Brothers

Written by: Ronald H. Balson
Narrated by: Fred Berman
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Publisher's Summary

The gripping tale about two boys, once as close as brothers, who find themselves on opposite sides of the Holocaust.

Elliot Rosenzweig, a respected civic leader and philanthropist, is attending a fundraiser when he is suddenly accosted and accused of being a former Nazi SS officer named Otto Piatek, the Butcher of Zamosc. Although the charges are denounced as preposterous, his accuser is convinced he is right and engages attorney Catherine Lockhart to bring Rosenzweig to justice. Solomon persuades attorney Catherine Lockhart to take his case, revealing that the true Piatek was abandoned as a child and raised by Solomon's own family only to betray them during the Nazi occupation. But has Solomon accused the right man?

Once We Were Brothers is Ronald H. Balson's compelling tale of two boys and a family who struggle to survive in war-torn Poland, and a young love that struggles to endure the unspeakable cruelty of the Holocaust. Two lives, two worlds, and 60 years converge in an explosive race to redemption that makes for a moving and powerful tale of love, survival, and ultimately the triumph of the human spirit.

©2009 Ronald H. Balson (P)2013 Macmillan Audio

What listeners say about Once We Were Brothers

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

I gasped more than once..

This is such a great book, like a history lesson and mystery wrapped up in one. I gasped aloud more than once. This story rips your heart out frequently, especially near the end. I really enjoy the writing style, and appreciate that due to how it is written, you get breaks between intense parts. Also, love the narration.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

great story! love the series

I loved the story and how the series all began. i am a fab of the author for the amount or research and heart that goes into these stories!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great Story

Great story line, narration was great.

The only comment I would say, is there were 2-3 instances where a cliche was used that I felt didn't fit quite right.

Very happy with the book.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Compelling story

Each time I hear a story of the Holocaust I am heartbroken and this story is yet another account of this horrific time. This story draws you in and to cheer out loud! Fantastic narration. Highly recommended!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
  • DH
  • 2022-09-10

Best audible book

I’ve listened to many audio books,but this one out shines them all. The narration was amazing and authentic. I couldn’t stop listening from start to finish.

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1 person found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great book.

The fist second ok but the second and third were a page turner for me

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Enjoyed it!

My hubby and I always listen to audible books when we travel….even he really enjoyed this book. We kept going back & forth if Elliot really was who he was accused of being. The only thing I did not like was when the character Catherine would keep saying she wasn’t good enough, or wasn’t a good attorney. I understand that people don’t always see their own values but it was through out the whole book. Other than that, we totally enjoyed it.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Heartbreaking but so inspiring.

I don’t normally write reviews but this book deserved one. I don’t plan on giving a synopsis of the book. You just have to read it but I’m going to say one thing, this was quite likely one of the best books I’ve ever heard/read. The performance and story were both incredible. Just read this book. I wish I could give it 10 starts.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Excellent

Engaging plot line accompanied by engaging really engaging audio! A must listen for historical fiction lovers!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Good book!

Interesting story, very good performance.
The Ben’s story is very vivid and some details may deeply disturb the listener.
Recommended.

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