Publication Date: March 11, 2025
A poignant novel of love, survival, and how brightly hope can shine against the backdrop of unimaginable darkness
Rachael is a resilient Jewish woman imprisoned in Auschwitz during World War II, clinging to the memories of her lost family while enduring the harrowing reality of the concentration camp. Amidst the brutality, she uncovers a hidden diamond engagement ring in the mud-its brilliance offering a glimmer of hope and a reason to survive. As she navigates the perils of camp life, Rachael forms a profound bond with Chaya, a young girl also yearning for connection and comfort in their shared despair.Interwoven with Rachael’s tale are the lives of Samual and Hanna, a young Jewish couple planning for their future while navigating the hardships of Nazi-occupied Prague. Distracted by his life in Prague, Samual initially dismisses the growing threats against their community, focusing instead on the engagement ring he dreams of giving to Hanna. As the grip of the Nazis tightens, their plans unravel, yet their love becomes a beacon of resilience amid escalating fear and loss.Diamonds in Auschwitz illustrates how, when everything seems lost, even the smallest treasures can illuminate the path to freedom and connection. Through Rachael and Chaya’s friendship, and Samual and Hanna’s unwavering love, the story reminds us that even in the bleakest times, humanity can shine brightly.
A prisoner at Auschwitz discovers a discarded ring that serves as a basis for a poignant story.
Author Meg Hamand delivers a heart-breaking dual storyline highlighting the horrors of being Jewish during the German occupation in World War II in Diamonds in Auschwitz.
Rachael’s discovery of what she thought was a dirty rock sparks memories of her family. Despite her efforts to resist, she grows close to Chaya, a young girl also trying to survive in a hopeless place.
In addition to events occurring in the present, there is a second storyline featuring Samual and Hanna. The beautiful ring plays a key role in their story, too.
Despite the horrors of the Holocaust, the author focuses on the fragile pieces of humanity that the characters cling to as they navigate the horrific landscape of occupation. Have your tissues handy for this book.
Diamonds in Auschwitz illustrates how something beautiful can breathe hope into a truly depressing and ugly set of circumstances.
Meg Hamand has had a heart for storytelling since her first poem was published in an anthology in elementary school. Since then, she graduated with a degree in English and creative writing from Indiana State University. She’s been published in multiple print and online publications and recognized in the “Michiana 40 under 40” by the South Bend Chamber of Commerce. She lives in Northern Indiana with her high school sweetheart, daughter, and miniature Dachshund, Nixon (named after Captain Nixon from Band of Brothers, not after the president).
