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Learn moreDefending Britta Stein is a story of bravery, betrayal, and redemption—from the winner of the National Jewish Book Award.
Chicago, 2018: Ole Henryks, a popular restauranteur, is set to be honored by the Danish/American Association for his many civic and charitable contributions. Frequently appearing on local TV, he is well known for his actions in Nazi-occupied Denmark during World War II—most consider him a hero.
Britta Stein, however, does not. The ninety-year-old Chicago woman levels public accusations against Henryks by spray-painting “Coward,” “Traitor,” “Collaborator,” and “War Criminal” on the walls of his restaurant. Mrs. Stein is ultimately taken into custody and charged with criminal defacement of property. She also becomes the target of a bitter lawsuit filed by Henryks and his son, accusing her of defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Attorney Catherine Lockhart, though hesitant at first, agrees to take up Mrs. Stein's defense. With the help of her investigator husband, Liam Taggart, Lockhart must reach back into wartime Denmark and locate evidence that proves Mrs. Stein's innocence. Defending Britta Stein is critically-acclaimed author Ronald H. Balson's thrilling take on a modern day courtroom drama, and a masterful rendition of Denmark’s wartime heroics.
A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin's Press
RONALD H. BALSON is an attorney, professor, and writer. His novel The Girl From Berlin won the National Jewish Book Award and was the Illinois Reading Council's adult fiction selection for their Illinois Reads program. He is also the author of Defending Britta Stein, Eli’s Promise, Karolina's Twins, The Trust, Saving Sophie, and the international bestseller Once We Were Brothers. He has appeared on many television and radio programs and has lectured nationally and internationally on his writing. He lives in Chicago.
Reviews
"This brilliantly imagined novel [is] part courtroom drama, part historical reckoning. Chock-full of finely wrought detail about the war and dashed with suspense and intrigue, it's a must-read for historical fiction buffs." —Newsweek
Praise for Eli's Promise:
"A captivating saga of the Holocaust and its aftermath spanning decades and continents...Balson’s meticulous historical detail, vivid prose and unforgettable characters further solidify his place among the most esteemed writers of historical fiction today." —Pam Jenoff, bestselling author of The Lost Girls of Paris
"A powerful, superbly crafted tale...equal parts heartbreaking and life affirming, with themes that are as relevant today as ever. Eli's Promise is historical fiction at its finest, a riveting page turner that will hook readers from the start." —Jane Healey, bestselling author of The Beantown Girls
"Balson pulls no punches...His story is a five star version of a period of history that proved a horror for those living in it." —Stacy Alesi, BookBitch
"Balson juggles between his three stories effectively, writing with great emotion but without overt melodrama, always aware of the tragic ways in which history repeats itself." —Bill Ott, Booklist
Praise for The Girl from Berlin:
"...dynamic plotting, compelling characters, and back-and-forth between-eras action...an unvarnished testament to the ugly truth." —Library Journal
"A fascinating mystery that will stick with readers for weeks." —Minneapolis Star Tribune
“Balson never disappoints with his rich, historical thrillers.” —Alyson Richman, bestselling author of The Lost Wife
“A fascinating, fast-paced dual-narrative that I could not put down. It is a heart-wrenching story of survival, hope and, ultimately, redemption that is sure to thrill!” —Jane Healey, author of The Saturday Evening Girls Club