The Nanny Outside the Gates

Auschwitz, 1944. With trembling hands, Halina unfolds the letter hidden in the book her mother left her, then drops it with a strangled cry. The letter contains the answers she’s always searched for—and puts her in unimaginable danger…


Forced to work as a nanny for a Nazi officer living just outside the imposing gates of Auschwitz, Halina clings to the two people who bring her comfort in the enemy’s world. Jewish prisoner Gavriel, who she sneaks food, medicine and soft words to—and who, in return, gives her his trust, a shoulder to cry on, and the strength of his warm, calloused hand in hers. And sweet baby Flora, who sleeps like an angel in her arms…


Officer Schafer’s cold blue eyes and twisted sneer leave her terrified for Flora—and his wife’s neglect of her baby borders on cruel. As she gazes at the little baby who’s wrapped her chubby fingers around Halina’s heart, she vows to protect the innocent child from the monsters surrounding her.


But Halina was raised an orphan, and when she discovers a letter tucked into a book her mother left her, her fragile peace shatters. Because the letter reveals her mother was Jewish. And Halina is working in the enemy’s home, just a stone’s throw from the prison they’d lock her in if they knew the truth.


Plunged into terrible danger, Halina knows she must run before she’s discovered. But how can she abandon Gavriel—the man she’s come to love—and little Flora? Can she find a way to save them too, no matter what it costs? Or will she be forced to make an unspeakable choice?


An unputdownable, addictive World War Two page-turner which will make your heart sing with hope even as you reach for the tissues. Perfect for fans of The Midwife of Auschwitz, The Choice and The Tattooist of Auschwitz.

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The Nanny Outside the Gates

Reviews

Five-Star review for The Nanny Outside the Gates

"The Nanny Outside the Gates by Shari J. Ryan was such an engaging and emotional read, and she’s a new author to me that I’m so glad I’ve discovered. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the atmosphere of the story — vivid, heartfelt, and full of intrigue.


What stood out most for me was the emotional depth and sensitivity in the writing. The characters felt authentic, each with their own struggles and strengths, and I found myself really caring about them. The pacing was spot-on too — just the right mix of drama and quiet reflection — which made it impossible to put down.


I also loved how the author captured a strong sense of resilience and hope even in difficult circumstances. There’s a warmth in her storytelling that shines through, making the book feel both moving and uplifting." - Karen T, Netgalley Reviewer



Five-star review for The Nanny Outside the Gates by Shari J. Ryan

"Wow what a rollercoaster of emotions in this wonderful new story from Shari J Ryan. I requested it having already read one of hers so I knew it would be good. Absolutely heartbreaking, powerful, emotional, Halina is the strongest young woman surviving a horrific situation, with a twist right at the end that left me in tears. Everyone should read this." - Sarah R, Netgalley Reviewer


What readers are saying...

"The Nanny Outside the Gates by Shari J. Ryan was such an engaging and emotional read, and she’s a new author to me that I’m so glad I’ve discovered. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the atmosphere of the story — vivid, heartfelt, and full of intrigue.


What stood out most for me was the emotional depth and sensitivity in the writing. The characters felt authentic, each with their own struggles and strengths, and I found myself really caring about them. The pacing was spot-on too — just the right mix of drama and quiet reflection — which made it impossible to put down.


I also loved how the author captured a strong sense of resilience and hope even in difficult circumstances. There’s a warmth in her storytelling that shines through, making the book feel both moving and uplifting." - Karen T, Netgalley Reviewer


The Nanny Outside the Gates – a heartbreaking marriage romance by Shari J. Ryan
The Nanny Outside the Gates – a heartbreaking marriage romance by Shari J. Ryan
The Nanny Outside the Gates – a heartbreaking marriage romance by Shari J. Ryan

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