Clouds Across the Sun
Ellen Brazer

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Summary

Before the end of WWII, Hitler charged a group of his most trusted and brilliant comrades with a mission: educate your progeny and then elevate them to positions of power throughout the world. Steeped in fact and impeccably researched, Clouds Across the Sun is the story of just one of these children.

From Naples, Florida, New York City, and Washington D.C., to Israel and then the killing grounds of Vilnius, Poland (Lithuania) this story is one of great romance, discovery, redemption, and enlightenment as Jotto Wells unravels the intrigue surrounding a plan to take over the government of the United States.

Hearts of Fire

is now also available on http://www.Amazon.com

Purchase Clouds Across the Sun and Hearts of Fire now on Amazon.com

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Read Reviews

Bobby G. Peters

Judge of Superior Court

Columbus GA August 24, 2011

I finished your book last night and really enjoyed it very much. It is a wonderful book and an awesome story that should be made into a movie. Real Life. I am not just telling you this, it was one of the best books I have ever read. You make the reader see and feel each detail with your vivid descriptions.

Hadassah Brandeis Institute co-cordinator I would highly recommend Ellen Brazer as a speaker to any group..... She brought a sense of history, and warmth to the women who were in each of our sessions..... She answered each question with honesty and a sense of caring..... Each one of our members thoroughly enjoyed her presentation. Susan Rudnick, Boca Raton, Florida

Terrific super fast book!, April 12, 2011

By

Jennifer Jackson-Strage (Florida) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Clouds Across the Sun (Kindle Edition)
SO I just HAD to write and compliment Ms. Brazer on her book. Our social group decided to use this book as our first book to re-ignite our book club and announced such to our membership this week. I, however, having downloaded the sample, couldn't wait until the fall when the group would be reading the book, and finished it in record time because I just couldn't put it down. What a terrific story and so well written. I don't think I have ever cried while reading a book - cotton commercials on TV and sappy movies for sure - but never a book.

Thank you for writing such an emotive book. Congratulations on such an excellent piece of work. I can't wait to meet you and to read more!

5.0 out of 5 stars

Clouds Across the Sun, May 24, 2011

Fran Lewis "Fran and Bertha"

This review is from: Clouds Across the Sun (Kindle Edition)

A story told so beautifully, vividly replete with history, flashbacks to the past and characters that endear you to some and others you hope get repaid. Past deeds told, truths and lies come out and the deceptions revealed as author Ellen Brazer takes the reader on a journey back in time that no one should ever forget. The Holocaust happened and Hitler was not a made up person just a monster.

I give this book Five Stars Of David

I really love the Stars of David over each Chapter Number. My grandmother suffered at the hands of those in a concentration camp. This book will always hold a special meaning for me. Thank you for giving me the honor of reading and reviewing it."

Book review Clouds AcrossThe sun by Ellen Brazer

April 30, 2011 05:15 PM EDT

views: 97 |

I was able to review this wonderful book by Ellen Brazer titled Clouds Across the Sun and I'm so glad I did. This is historical fiction, but the story is so fascinating and compelling you will be wishing it was made into a movie more than once as I did .

The Story starts out in Naples Florida 1951 where we meat Jotto Wells as a young girl. From there we are taken to many places. Ellen's detailed description of places like Israel-Vilnius,Poland are fantastic and I found this book to be unputdownable. I do not want to spoil the readers adventure by describing the story much because its the story itself that will grab and hold you. This story has everything from intrigue and conspiracy to romance and happy endings as we follow Jotto on her journy of self-discovery. This story may be fiction but its truly believable fiction and I thought many times while reading, what if this had actually happened and that thought alone gave me shivers. This story is so filled with interesting characters that it totally captures the imagination like few novels can do. This is one book that I will read over and over again just to experience the discovery and journey again. Clouds Across the Sun is not only filled with factual information, its been so well researched as to be one of those rare novels that reads like history. This is the story of a devious plan to take over the United States by Hitler's most trusted comrades as he charges them to educate there children and elevate them to positions of power - Clouds Across the Sun is the story of one of these children . Totally creative and superbly unique, It is a fantastic read for any history lover .

Thanks for reading my review of Clouds across the sun.

Loraine Alcorn

November, 2010

I bought Clouds Across the Sun about a year or more ago at the Hadassah Florida Central Region Conference where you were one of the speakers. You were vivacious, articulate, and inspiring.
The book sat, unread, in the basket beside my bed until this past Friday when I decided that the time was right to clear up the piles of reading material. Your book was still on the top of the pile. Ultimately, it was the only item that was moved that day. After page 1, there was no stopping. It took about a day and a half to finish it. Unfortunately, I had to stop from time to time to buy groceries, cook meals, and sleep.
I suspect you can tell that I really enjoyed it. It is beautifully written with just enough side detail (furniture and clothing descriptions, etc.). And, it was plausible, making it just a bit frightening to think that it could happen. I know that Philip Roth also wrote a "what-if" book, The Plot Against America, but I haven't read it yet.
Today's (11/14/10) Sarasota Herald-Tribune had an article, "Secret papers document U.S. aid for former Nazis." I always knew that men like Werner Von Braun were Germans who were brought here, allegedly to work with American scientists, but the piece sounded like there was information about men like the characters in your book. Chilling.

Leonore Ruggles

A Review From Melborne, Australia

Clouds Across the Sun, by Ellen Brazer; a review

Clouds Across the Sun

I have recently taken a break from reading Historical Fiction, but it is a genre I will always go back to time and time again. I love being transported to another time and learning about the way people lived and viewed the world.

“Clouds Across the Sun”, by Ellen Brazer, was the perfect novel to draw me out of my Historical Fiction retirement. Set in post-WWII, Brazer explores what became of reprieved Nazi extremists who were allowed to emigrate to America in exchange for information about the Russians.

Determined to hold true to Herr Hitler’s doctrines, Hans Wells, with the help of his brother-in-law, Otto, plan to take over the US government through puppeteering his daughter, Jotto.

Fast-paced and action-packed, “Clouds Across the Sun” is difficult to put down. I picked it up, intending to read the first chapter, and did not stop until I realised I was up to chapter 8. I had to stop - work beckoned - but it was difficult to walk away.

Crunch time at work and I could not continue with Brazer’s novel. I became frustrated, wondering what was to become of beautiful, indoctrinated Jotto. Would she be able to escape the sins of the father, or is she trapped forever in the soul-sapping universe that is her life?

At times this novel can be confronting, and the rapid jump in time frame can take a bit of getting used to. That being said, Brazer has created a character in Jotto that the reader can truly care about. Her story is heart-breaking and I kept my fingers crossed for a happy ending throughout the entire novel.

“Clouds Across the Sun” is a unique story and cleverly told. It is well worth the read, especially if you are craving something different.

Get Ellen Brazer’s novel “Clouds Across the Sun” from www.smashwords.com › Fiction › Drama › Americanor go to http://www.ellenbrazer.com/ for more information.

More Reviews

“Clouds Across the Sun is a story that touched my soul, and reminded me how all humanity is connected. Filled with passion and hope, it is the kind of book you can’t put down.” -Da Chen, New York Times bestselling author of Brothers and Wandering Warriors

“Your scholarship, creative imagination, and exceptional writing skills have brought to light the voices of those who were silenced before their time.”-Myrtle Wreath Award Hadassah

“Clouds Across the Sun is a mesmerizing novel that is rich in scope, thought provoking, and an incredibly beautiful read that held me from beginning to end.” -Lily Prellezo, author of Seagull One: The true story of Jose Basulto and Brothers to the Rescue

This is excerpted from a review that appeared in the January 2010 Jewish Federation Star: What a premise! Step by step, Ellen Brazer details the development of the plot. The novel has a broad scope, offers compelling intrigue, a series of romantic interludes, and a sophisticated presentation of the age-old question about the roots of identity. “Clouds Across the Sun” will engage readers with its the captivating story line, varied settings, and well-drawn characters.

Congratulations Ellen!!!! I cried, gasped, laughed, felt scared & angry, ached for the Jewish people. I was captivated by the love story & fell in love with all the characters. I rushed home for 3 days just so I could keep reading.... Thank you for sharing with us the beautiful talents God gave you!!!

Maria Elena Holguin

I have never written a fan letter of any kind, but I had to send you this e-mail.Truthfully, I had not heard of you before nor had I read your previous book. I LOVED this story! I started to read it over the weekend.I simply couldn't put it down until I finished it- which was no easy task because my grand-daughter was bat mitsvahed on Saturday. I look forward to your next story, although I'd just love to read more about Jo, Aaron, Morgan and Jacob. I can't believe that their story is over. I wish you continued good luck in your future writings and I can't wait to read them.

Sincerely, Honey Netburn

I devoured your book,"Clouds Across the Sun", in less than 48 hours after receiving it. It was a wonderful read and I am taking it back to Canada for my 97 year old mother to read. I am only sorry that I missed out on getting a copy of the first book but I have borrowed it from one of my neighbors.I wish you continued success and look forward to your next book.
Sincerely, Elaine Bebchuk

This email has to do with my hubby, Richard. Although he has much respect for me and all women in general, has refused to read works of female authors. His excuse is usually that they lack the descriptions of real life adventure, a man's point of view, etc etc...and no matter how hard I had tried in the past to get him to change, he would always revert to Harlan Coban (whom I also love), Patterson, Ludlum, Kellerman, Deaver, and Follett to name just a few. Richard asked about Clouds Across The Sun....whether it was the swastika, or the star of David on the cover , or just plain my enthusiasm, not sure....but he picked it up and began reading. I didn't tease him..rather just ignored his choice and crossed my fingers. WALLA!!! You are a magician! He is now embedded halfway thru your book and has commented several times (no exaggeration) on how much he is enjoying it, and what a good writer you are! He loves how you have made the characters so real they seem to walk all over the pages. (his quote) Leanne Croft

I really enjoyed reading "Clouds Across the Sun". I felt as if I truly got to know each character personally and very much routed for the main character Jo to have her happy ending. The eloquent way in which Ellen Brazer writes this story makes you question what's fiction and whats real. This book is a must read. J. Tilles, Florida

A Must Read!, March 1, 2010

By M. Tinney I could not put this book down once I started it! The book has a bit of everything in it. Fiction, fact, a dark side, good relationships, bad relationships... A great read!

I purchased this book because several years ago I read Brazer's Hearts of Fire, which once I started, I couldn't put it down until I read the last page. Clouds Across the Sun is also that type of story. The characters come alive. As the story progresses, you begin to feel as though you are physically present. Could this have really happened? I am amazed at Brazer's ability and imagination to write the twists and turns of this plot. Normally when I finish a book I put it down and that's the end of it. Not this book. I have thought about it and discussed it with my friends. Reading Clouds Across the Sun has been an intriguing experience I won't soon forget.

Priscilla Friendland

I just finished reading Clouds Across the Sun by Ellen Brazer on my Kindle. I started reading it in the morning and couldn't put it down. It was like a movie you just had to see to the end. Brazer catches you right from the beginning. It's a must-read. Barbara Bienvenu

Doctor Susan Baker

This is a totally captivating story that is everything a historical novel should be. From the first moment when the reader meets Jotto Wells as a child in Florida in the 1950s through her maturing into a dynamic senator in Washington DC , the reader is transported to previous times and places. The novel's premise, that Hitler sent his cohorts on a mission to infiltrate governments throughout the world using their children, is delivered believably and engagingly. Through Jotto's search for her origins and the mystery that surrounds them we are convinced of the insidious effect of the Nazi drive to dominate the world. Clouds Across the Sun is a love story wrapped in mystery and suspense. It's fun to read and satisfying, too.

Barbara Glicken Coral Gables, FL) -

This is a novel that will grab your heart from the very first paragraph.

A story of good versus evil - a very powerful demented evil.

The main character, an amazing woman named Jo, discovers her life is a lie and the past a dark secret.

Her journey from Naples, FL to Washington to Israel is full of twists and turns, love and betrayal.

A descriptive historical novel that makes you believe you are part of the story.

You will not want to put this book down.

Hitler's agents in Naples, Florida,

By

Lily Prellezo

What if? What if it could happen, did happen? Did Hitler really command his progeny to filter through and rise to the tops of governments? Could it really happen in America? That is the question that keeps the pages turning in Ellen Brazer's novel, Clouds Across the Sun. We see the generational impact of the Nazis on family life. From the opening pages in cozy 1950s Naples, Florida, where a father hypnotizes his ten year-old daughter, the reader sees Jotto Wells grow up to be a powerful senator in Washington. We see a father and uncle devote their lives to creating an identify for Jotto, an identity that will be shattered, leaving her with the timely question: who am I? But the little girl who always yearned for a mother's love will find her roots in the most unlikely of places: Israel and Vilnius, Poland. Brazer allows the reader to know a little more about Jotto than the main character herself, so we are committed to her self-discovery. Brazer's vivid descriptions of Naples, Washington, Israel, and Poland take us there: we feel the sunshine of South Florida, we marvel at the riches and power of Washington, we are transported in time in Israel, and we smell the forest in Poland. Clouds Across the Sun is full of suspense, history, family ties, and love. The only time a reader will ever put down this book is to continously ask: what if?

Believe Again. . .

Deborah Weed

Clouds Across the Sun is a breathtaking book that brings hope to life. The premise captivated me from the get-go. The idea that Hitler could have reached beyond the grave to reign terror again, made my skin crawl. What is worse is that the story reads so well that it makes one wonder whether there is any truth to Hitler's plot. Personally, I get bored easy. If a book doesn't grab me and keep me from beginning to end, I put it down. Clouds Across the Sun gripped my heart. The characters leapt off the pages until they became friends and foes. Buying Clouds Across the Sun is a no-brainer! Ellen Brazer is an author who makes one transcend the ordinary and question the deeper meaning of life itself. Do we each have the inherent power to triumph over evil? After reading Clouds Across the Sun, I am convinced that we can and will!

Best new book I have read in a long time.

Marjorie Goldberg (Key Biscayne, FL USA) -

Forget watching TV, forget the movies, if you want to be completely captivated, then buy and read Clouds Across The Sun. You will not be able to put down this book from the first page on. I loved every minute of reading every chapter in the book.

The characters evoke so much emotion that you become one with them. The story touches one in so many ways and is written in a captivating, beautiful manner.

Never to be Forgotten,

By

Sherry Gold (West Chester,PA

Once I began reading, "Clouds Across the Sun," I couldn't put it down. Ellen Brazer's storytelling ability keeps the reader on his or her toes. I was immediately drawn into the saga, waiting to see what would happen next. The characters are very real, as is the story they tell. The impact of the Holocaust on millions of families, both Jewish and non-Jewish, should never be forgotten. Ellen makes certain that one ever will.

Hearts of Fire

by Ellen Brazer

Is now Available from

Amazon.com and other on-line Bookstores!

Book Club Questions for Discussion

We meet Jotto when she is a young child. She is able to resist her father,

Hans Wells’ hypnosis? Yet, later in the book she is not able to avoid her Uncle Otto’s ability to control her mind. Why do you think that is true?

   Why is Jo, by 11 years old already questioning the hate she is being fed by her father? Why is she not believing all that she is being told? Do you believe that we have “Knowing within our soul?”

   As a young child Jo feels the rejection of her mother, Ilya. What role do you think this played in her development as an adult?

   Ilya remained silent when she realized that Jo was not her child. Would you have done the same under the circumstances?

   The title Clouds Across the Sun represents a time in the history when darkness enveloped the world. It seemed dark yet the sun was still there. How do you think this relates to the story of the Jewish people?

Hans Wells and Otto Milch have a complicated relationship. Why do you think that Otto allowed himself to be manipulated by Hans when he was able to control others with his extraordinary abilities with hypnosis? What role did his sister, Ilya play in his life and decisions?

   Why do you think Hans felt no remorse for his horrendous activities during the war? Do you think that Hans Wells loved his daughter above his commitment to the Third Reich?

Jo’s life from the outside looks idilic. She is moneyed, beautiful, everything is put in front of her on a silver platter. Do you think her life is perfect? Why do you think she was so popular in school? Why do you think she excels in everything she tries to do from sports to politics? What effect to you think her friend Sweeny had on her?

   Jo falls in love with Andrew Taxton. Throughout the entire book we weave in and out of the affair. Do you think that Jo ever really loved him?

   Did you admire Andy at any time in the book? What did you think of Andy’s father and mother and the control they had over their son?

   Jo meets Robert Osborne. That event changes her life. Do you believe an encounter with a person can change your life?

   Do you think Jo was drawn to Robert by spiritual forces within her soul?

   Do you think Robert not telling Jo about her mother was the right thing for him to do? Would you have told her?

   Jo’s family bought her position at the law firm and her election. How is that relevant today? Are elections being financed with personal fortunes in America today?

   The money that enabled Jo to gain access to politics was money stollen from the Jews and put into the Nazi coffers. That information has just come to light. Did you ever wonder where that money is today?

   Aaron Blumenthal has a dramatic effect of Jo’s life and is in love with with her for years. Believing Jo is gentile, he finds it impossible to deny his heritage as a Jew and does not allow himself to have the relationship. Do you agree with him?

   Do you think Aaron Blumenthal owed it to his parents to remain faithful to his religion?

   How do you think Aaron’s childhood affected him? Why do you think he spent so much time turning his home into a museum?

   Vladimir/David and Anna don’t play a large role in the book but he has an enormous impact on Jo. Why do you think that is? What is it about David that touches Jo?

   Rebecca and Saul are the connection for Robert to his wife Morgan. The relationship is complicated and intense. Rebecca becomes the mother Jo never really had. They too deceive Jo and don’t reveal the truth to her. Do you think they should have remained silent?

   What effect did Robert’s death have on Jo, Rebecca, Saul and Aaron?

   Throughout the story we have the Nazis plotting to put Jo into the White House. In the book I describe the power the president has when taking office to withhold information from the public and to appoint 6,000 people to his government. Without Oversight! How could this effect our country?

Are things happening today in our government that could be detrimental to Israel?

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Book review Clouds AcrossThe sun by Ellen Brazer

A Review From Melborne, Australia

Clouds Across the Sun, by Ellen Brazer; a review

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