Margins
Against the Odds book cover
Against the Odds
A Cold War Tale of Chocolate, Courage, and Loyalty behind the Iron Curtain
2023
First Published
4.41
Average Rating
218
Number of Pages
In the heart of Berlin—a divided city simmering with tension and unrest—Floriane ekes out a living in a chocolate factory. She's not just an unassuming worker; she's a survivor, raising her younger sister in the shadows of a world still scarred by war. Vladimir, a Red Army Intelligence officer, is sent to East Berlin with a clear to quell discontent against the Soviet Union. A chance encounter with Floriane ignites a forbidden love, but he hides a dangerous secret – until he’s forced to choose between his two true his country and Floriane. Emboldened by the glimmer of hope following Stalin’s death, the East German citizens demand change. As the workers strike against oppressive quotas, Floriane and her sister join the protest, marching in the streets they call home. When Floriane is in peril, Vladimir's heart and conscience collide. Will he risk everything, including his own promising career, to rescue the woman he loves?> Against the Odds is a gripping tale of passion, courage, and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous chapter in German history. Join Floriane and Vladimir on a thrilling journey through the smoky streets of Berlin, where love knows no boundaries, and heroes emerge from the most unexpected places. This book is based on the true events of the Uprising of the 17th of June 1953 in East Berlin.
Avg Rating
4.41
Number of Ratings
209
5 STARS
58%
4 STARS
28%
3 STARS
12%
2 STARS
2%
1 STARS
0%
goodreads

Author

Marion Kummerow
Marion Kummerow
Author · 41 books

Marion Kummerow was born and raised in Germany, before she set out to "discover the world" and lived in various countries. In 1999 she returned to Germany and settled down in Munich where she's now living with her family. After dipping her toes with non-fiction books, she finally tackled the project dear to her heart. UNRELENTING is the story about her grandparents, who belonged to the German resistance and fought against the Nazi regime. It's a book about resilience, love and the courage to stand up and do the right thing.

548 Market St PMB 65688, San Francisco California 94104-5401 USA
© 2026 Paratext Inc. All rights reserved