Beginning ~ at the window

Beginning

Frankfurt am Main, Tuesday, May 8th, 1770

It all began at the window of our home.

The First Mrs. Rothschild ~ by Sara Aharoni, translated by Yardenne Greenspan, 2019, historical fiction (Germany), 484 pages

It is the turn of the eighteenth century in Frankfurt, Germany, and young Gutle and Meir Amschel Rothschild struggle to establish themselves in the cramped and restricted Judengasse.  But when Meir’s talents as a novice banker catch the attention of a German prince, Meir is suddenly afforded entrée into the European world of finance and nobility, and the Rothschilds’ lives are changed forever.

As proud as Gutle is of her husband’s success, she is also cautious — very much aware of the fact that her husband’s rise is tied to his patrons’ willingness to "see past" his Jewishness.  As their family grows and a dream of fortune comes true, so does their belief that money will ultimately bring the power needed to establish Jewish civil rights.

This story is told through Gutle’s intimate journals, revealed across decades — from the French Revolution through personal tragedies and triumphs.

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Book Beginnings on Fridays.