The Safekeep: A Novel

by Yael van der Wouden
The Safekeep: A Novel cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Mystery
Technical:
  • ID: 239
  • Added: 2025-09-06
  • Updated: 2025-09-06
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
hopewellslibraryoflife.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2025-09-18
compelling 4.50

The reviewer found 'The Safekeep' to be a compelling and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of secrets. They appreciated the intricate plot and the emotional depth of the characters, making it a memorable read.

The reviewer was captivated by 'The Safekeep' and found it to be a deeply engaging novel. They particularly enjoyed how the author, Yael van der Wouden, weaves together a complex narrative that delves into the intricacies of human connections and the consequences of hidden truths. The characters were well-developed, and their emotional journeys resonated with the reviewer, making the story both relatable and profound. The reviewer also praised the author's ability to create a suspenseful atmosphere that kept them hooked until the very end. Overall, they found the book to be a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the lengths people go to protect those they care about. The reviewer would recommend this book to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally rich reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The reviewer said, 'The Safekeep is a beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of human relationships with sensitivity and depth.

    They noted, 'The characters are so well-developed that you can't help but feel invested in their journeys.

    The reviewer concluded, 'Yael van der Wouden has crafted a compelling story that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

facebook.com · Unknown · 2025-09-18
intriguing 4.00

The reviewer enjoyed the book, finding it intriguing and well-crafted, but noted that the plot might be thin in some areas. The characters and setting were particularly compelling, drawing the reviewer into the story.

The reviewer found The Safekeep to be a captivating read, particularly appreciating the detailed setting and the complex characters. The story's exploration of post-war life and the protagonist's psychological journey were highlighted as standout elements. However, they felt that some parts of the plot could have been more developed. The reviewer also noted the book's ability to create a sense of unease and suspense, making it a memorable read. Overall, they enjoyed the book and found it thought-provoking, though they wished for a bit more depth in certain areas.

Quick quotes

    The reviewer loved this series so much! I read them in February but couldn't bring myself to review them. Just read them!

    The blurb of this book, published in 2017, seems alarmingly like America today. Was it the inspiration? I’m not a conspiracy theorist. Read it and decide.

    The war might not be well and truly over after all, and neither Eva — nor the house in which they live — are what they seem.

bbc.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-06-12
moving 4.00

The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden is a poignant debut novel that explores the trauma of Jewish property expropriation during and after World War II. The story follows Isabel, a lonely protagonist who discovers the truth about her family's house and attempts to right historical wrongs.

The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden is a deeply moving debut novel that delves into the dark chapter of Dutch history involving the expropriation and theft of Jewish property during and after World War II. The narrative centers around Isabel, a lonely protagonist who lives alone in her family's house, maintaining it as her late mother would have wanted. Isabel suspects their maid of stealing from the kitchen, but the arrival of her brother's girlfriend, Eva, reveals the truth about the house and its history. The novel beautifully captures the trauma and the attempt to right historical wrongs, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates the novel's exploration of a significant historical period and its impact on the characters' lives.

Quick quotes

    The trauma of this history hangs over the lives of three siblings grieving the loss of their mother in 1961.

    Isabel, the novel’s lonely protagonist, lives alone in the family house, keeping it in order as her late mother would have wanted.

    Following the arrival of her brother’s girlfriend, Eva, Isabel discovers the truth of the house and attempts to right historical wrongs.

Appears in Lists