Swan Song: A Novel

Told with attention to historical fact and channeling actual personalities of the era, Swan Song should interest both music lovers and lovers of a fast-paced historical novel.

Addie R. Appelbaum, St. Petersburg Opera Guild, Vice-President of Programming

Ursula Beckers operatic star is on the rise in Nazi Berlinuntil she discovers that she is one-quarter Jewish. Although Hitler is aware of her lineage, her popularity and exquisite voice protect her and her family from persecution. When William Patrick Hitler arrives in Germany and is offered employment by his Uncle Adolf, a chance encounter with Ursula leads to a romantic relationship that further shields the young diva from mistreatment. But for how long? Ursula is ordered to sing at Hitlers Berghof estate where she throws down a gauntlet that unleashes the wrath of the megalomaniacal leader. Fearing for her life, Ursula and Willy decide to emigrate to England. But as the ship is about to sail, Ursula disappears. Willy crosses the globe in an effort to find her, even as his uncle taunts him, relishing in the horror of the murderous cat-and-mouse game.