Escape to Freedom

Secret of the Rose #3

by Michael R. Phillips

For thousands of readers, Michael Phillips has expertly illustrated the grim realities and spiritual challenges of World War II and its aftermath in the first two volumes of The Secret of the Rose series. Imprisoned years before by the Nazis for his Jewish sympathies, Baron von Dortmann has now been rescued by his daughter Sabina. Events take a climatic turn in Escape to Freedom as the two―along with American ally Matthew McCallum―desperately elude their pursuers and seek a way out of Communist Germany. But paralleled with these years of trial is the strength of this family's courageous faith in God's steadfast care.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Historical, World War II, Adult Fiction

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

About the author

Librarian Note: there is more than one author with this name in the Goodreads database.

Michael Phillips has been writing in the Christian marketplace for 30 years. All told, he has written, co-written, and edited some 110 books. Phillips and his wife live in the U.S., and make their second home in Scotland.

Reviews

[Rachelle Sperling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am giving this the same review as the first two novels in the series - the story continued to be interesting and I found the spiritual principles in this novel particularly challenging. I especially related to the discussion on lonliness and contentment.

WOW! This book was a lesson in spiritual life set in an interesting historical story. Like with most of Phillips writing, I had to struggle through the first few chapters as I switched gears from the things I normally read to a deeper and I would say, older, style. I feel the same when I read George MacDonald or CS Lewis. This type of writing takes much more reader participation but the end is worth it. I enjoyed the story, learned a little more about the history of the time but most of all I found myself encouraged and challenged by the lessons and spiritual principles contained within this novel. I highly recommend the whole series!

[Mary Foulger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved learning about the difficulties Christian face in the communist block. Lots of information, and lots of action in this book. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thankful that I went on to the third in this series. (I have found out since reading the second, that there are actually 4 in total!) This third book was full of spiritual truths, soul searching decisions, and people who willingly laid their lives down for another. I LOVED that the essence of Freedom was deeply discussed as well as the true seeker of Truth who is willing to be convicted and changed by truth rather than simply having the knowledge of truth. This book got back to more of the historical happenings in Russia as well as East and West Berlin and touched on Poland. This is an era of history that I really know so little about, as I wasn't born yet and the "cold war" was so warped with propaganda from both sides. Once again, enjoying Michael Phillips!

[Sonya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like the others in this series, the dialogue outweighed any action. They discussed deeper issues, which I found refreshing, but was frustrated by their length, repetition and sometimes lack of "fiting" with the rest of the context.
Some of the characters were too perfect.

I did enjoy the historical period. Gained a better understanding of WWII times in Europe especially.

I appreciated that though it could be historical romance, the characters exhibited restraint in relationships, the touchy-feeling aspect was downplayed and the deeper issues of love, respect were modeled.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Christian fiction with suspense, adventure, and romance set in Germany when it is split in two by the Berlin Wall. Continues to expound on the themes of growth as a Christian, God's Fatherhood, and how God draws new believers to Him. It also focuses on faithfulness and freedom, both internal and external.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 3 in the wonderful Secret of the Rose Series. What a phenomenal, historic fiction book and series! It is very inspirational and is definitely a book emphasizing faith and trust in God and His Son, Jesus Christ. This is not a fast, easy read, so be prepared to allow ample time for thought in the midst of reading. If you like this type of book, I highly recommend it.

[Kw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good main story, and others based on true escapes from East Germany and Russia. The barbaric atheist state could hardly have been more brutal and learning the history is heart-wrenching. But we need to know. I don't think they (communists)have changed all that much in their ideology, sadly.

[Karol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 3 in the Secret of the Rose series. More about life in Berlin during the time of the Berlin wall.

[Cws]

YA Phi

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

good but not as exciting as some-lots of good theology detailed

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books that are a great re-read. Phillips weaves history and scripture into his stories, challenging you to grow in your faith by relating scripture through storytelling.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review for this series is given on Book #4.

[Margery · Rating 5 out of 5]

God's faithfulness during the Cold War.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series

[Katharyn Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

While at times I felt this was slow, it was worth every word! The airlines themselves, the history, the insight into human nature, it is all very good. Looking forward to number 4.

[Bob]

Very gripping. It got so exciting at one point I was tempted to look ahead to see how it would end. It was a little long after the climax of the book.

[Cathy Ulm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Conclusion to Secret of the Rose

A very enjoyable and yet, thought provoking book. Also, it gave insight into a dreadful time in history in Germany.

[Joy Lokey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was happy to find a used copy of this third book in the series. I find the author a little wordy, but appreciate his thorough concepts at the same time. The ending was very appropriate, though long awaited, sort of like the way we often have to wait on the Lord to bring about completion or fulfillment of His will, our prayer answers, and so much of the way of life. Crushed or delayed hopes which He works in our lives to strengthen our faith, redirecting our paths to use us for our good and His glory. We don't always know the how's or whys of those delays, redirects, or setbacks, as well as total derailments of our hopes, dreams, and plans, our prayers, but God knows. God is in control. He has His perfect plan, whom will be impacted by changed direction or flow of plan. This series not only shed light on real history, but provided constant reminders to the reader of His thread of love through history. Beautifully written, a master author as renowned. But was hard to say goodbye to the characters who'd become well accuainted as my friends as I mentally endured and traveled with them.

[Rhonda Jayne Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rewards of pursuing God's way.

Inspiring, encouraging spiritual truths woven through the difficult lives of Christians living in the oppression of Soviet & East German Communism. Lives completely given over to God's leading reap their rewards. This story continues to follow the paths of Sabina, Matthew, Baron von Dortmann & Thaddeus aswell as others intricately involved in the destiny of God's chosen ones.

[Debbie Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am so glad this book is finished. A long book, there were parts that were good and parts that were dry and I forced myself through. More long than good. If the book was reduced by half I think I would have enjoyed it more. The history part was fascinating and horrifying and I found myself drifting off and pondering what it must of been like to live in that time and place. History can be a cruel teacher.

[Lynda Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thought provoking novel.

This book may seem kind of slow at times, but it comes together brilliantly. Without these times of thought provoking scenes, the exciting parts would not be so exciting. Very hard to put this book down. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. It saddens me to realize the three novels are completed. I will miss the time I havehave spent in another world. Excellent reads.

[Joey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It's just that the writing seems outdated. I say that knowing this book was written in the 90's (i just checked lol) In all seriousness the romance, historical fiction, and faithful connection was all there. I think I learned to love my future wife (Lord willing) as Christ loved the church. Purely and wholly.

[Taryn Spearey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was continuing the love story of Matthew and Sbina. I find them to be another favorite book couples.

There is a war also going on, and everyone was worried. This was really fastpaced and kept me turning the pages.

Now gonna read the finale, and review the series as a whole at the end!

[nelson shinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great

Fantastic book Mr. Phillips has brought forth a book that will make you think upon the differences of religion between Jewish and Christianity. This being done while keeping the story going . I know it has me thinking.

[Alexia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm crying🥺

[Popa Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I simply have no words to describe how much I love these books♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

all in all a great read....you won't be sorry!!

[Linea Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series

[Shekinah Dobony · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all the life lessons!!!

[Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of the Eleventh Hour series - EXCELLENT!