Set in Germany from 1928 to 1950, this historical fiction draws from real-life accounts of a Canadian woman reflecting on her past. The protagonist, Anna Muller, recalls her childhood in Leipzig from her perspective in Northern Ontario in 2008. As a unique young girl, she emerges from an artistic family and moves to her surrogate aunt Frieda's salon to begin her beautician apprenticeship. Recognizing Anna's potential, Frieda trains her for greater challenges. Anna's character unfolds through her involvement in the underground resistance and her deep relationships. The turmoil of betrayal, violence, and loss during the war transforms her, equipping her to endure the rise of Hitler and the Third Reich, as well as the postwar struggles that follow. This journey takes Anna from Leipzig to West Germany, where she navigates subterfuge and military control before ultimately escaping to Canada. The narrative addresses themes of propaganda, racism, and women's rights, prompting reflection on how the Nazis rose to power in a civilized society and how the Holocaust occurred with little resistance. The story resonates with contemporary issues of economic instability and societal confidence, ultimately portraying Anna's resilience and dignity in the face of adversity.
