Summary of Authentic Reviews

“For me, a good book, a really good book, needs a hook. Not a complicated hook, just a simple hook pulling me into the story. And this short novel by Nathaniel M Wrey has it. It's a story of British prisoners of war breaking out of a Nazi prisoner of war camp and then... trying to find a way of breaking back in! Pow! That's it - and I loved it! It's so very, very different. And for me, different is always good. Also, it got me thinking: why do they want to break back in? And, so, another reader is hooked in. What follows is a wonderfully interesting tale of bravery and sacrifice set in Poland. The plot is well crafted, and the characters work is spot on. Also, and this is very important in any historical novel, the author knows his history and, as a result, the setting is competently described. To finish then, I'm happy to say I'd thoroughly recommend this book to anybody interested in World War Two. As the text is not too difficult, I think it would also go down well with young adults. Also, anybody who enjoys a cleverly plotted military thriller will find this gripping. In many ways, this is the sort of book that would go down well with a reading group; there's so much to discuss, so many links to explore. All in all, it’s a cracker! Enjoy!” A Wishing Shelf Book Review (4 Stars)

Triumphant Where It Dares Defy by Nathaniel M Wrey is a breath-taking military story set in a World War II prison camp in Poland. Superbly written, this is an extraordinary story of courage and heroism with arresting characters who had the grit and guts to do their part for the war effort. I became caught up in the drama from the first sentence to the heartrending last paragraph. Complete with a riveting storyline and gripping plot, I couldn't put the book down. I appreciated that although the novel is fiction, the author set the story in real places, adding authenticity to an already engaging book. This novella is sure to ignite patriotism and faith in the unexpected, thrilling anyone who enjoys World War Two stories and legends.” Susan Sewell for Readers’ Favorite (5 Stars)

“Nathaniel M. Wrey did a fabulous job not only in creating Jock and Hyde but the several other prisoners barely surviving in the stalag. For me, it brought back memories of the TV series Hogan’s Heroes. The intense action kept me turning the pages. Wrey’s direct, clear prose heightens the suspense. He does a masterful job of creating the landscape, the atmosphere, the suffering and patriotism of the prisoners, and the warmth and humor of their interactions as they dig turnips and bicker over cigarettes. Triumphant Where It Dares Defy (a line from Lord Byron) is also a triumph of literary fiction. Thank you, Mr. Wrey, for a most entertaining read.” Jon Michael Miller for Readers Favourite (5 Stars)

“A thrilling WWII novella that brings a prisoner of war camp alive… The author’s ability to instill a vision and the motivation to see it through is seen throughout his writing.” Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers’ Favorite (5 Stars) - full review published on Readers’ Favorite website

“This is a great book. I started it and finished it in one day. If you like World War II novels and novellas, you will like this book. I recommend it highly.” Lynette (Goodreads 4 Stars)

“If you enjoy WWII history this is for you.” Lonnia (Goodreads 4 Stars)

“A thrilling tale, with an unexpected ending.” Zoe (Goodreads 5 Stars)

“Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters & facts to keep track of. This could also make another great WWII movie, or better yet a mini-TV series.” Tony Parsons MSW (Goodreads 3 Stars)

“A well-written World War II novella, with great dialogues, interesting characters, and a great plot… This story is well researched and easily begs for a sequel.” Lynne (Amazon.com 4 Stars)

“This may be a short read, but one I enjoyed all the way… It would be nice if Mr. Wrey continued Jock's adventures through the war, returning home to England, and if and how he kept his promise. I would be first in line for the sequel!” Evelyn (Amazon.com 5 Stars)

“Realistic, absorbing dialogue and suspenseful descriptions of their adventures carry along this gripping story.” M Hall (Amazon.ca 5 Stars)

“A Place More Dark by Nathaniel M. Wrey is wonderfully written, and it offers a unique perspective of the Second World War that I hadn’t considered. I loved how vivid the author was with descriptions, which helped create a mental picture of what was happening. The characters were well-developed, and the excellent narration also added to the overall beauty of the book. This was a great read, and I look forward to reading something else by Nathaniel M. Wrey.” F Mutuma, Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Review

“Despite A Place More Dark being the second in the series, Nathaniel M Wrey’s writing style made it easy to dive into the story without feeling lost or needing to read the first book. His skillful storytelling and well-explained context allowed me, a new reader of the series, to seamlessly pick up the plot and enjoy the story throughout. Additionally, light moments within the narrative offered unexpected moments of relief amidst the horrors of war and prison life. Wrey crafted a compelling cast of characters, with Jock being my favorite. His charisma, resilience, quiet strength, and intelligence, along with his ability to form unlikely bonds, made him a deeply relatable and inspirational leader. Ultimately, this book left me eager to explore more of Jock’s adventures in the series.” M Ogaja, Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Review

“I enjoyed the very British sense of humor, which is possibly unique to these island people and often misunderstood, but the hyperbole, the sarcasm, the rudeness, and the criticism of those who you like best are hallmarks of this humor. There is a smile on every page, despite the vivid descriptions of the appalling conditions as men in groups of 250 are force-marched from Eastern Poland into Germany in the bitter winter of 1945. The inhumanity of man to his fellow man is so well described, but despite the cruelty, brutality, and complete disdain for life, this group of soldiers rises above their suffering with humor and compassion. Jock’s care for the young daughter of the camp commandant, and his friendship with Konrad the German soldier, who helps them on their journey, shows man’s indomitable spirit. A Place More Dark by Nathaniel M Wrey touched me deeply and I shall remember it for a long time.” L E Clarke, Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Review

“In this gripping tale of survival against all odds, author Nathaniel M. Wrey paints a brutal and realistic portrait of the realities of war, demonstrating how it devastates the lives of not only soldiers but also innocent civilians who become collateral damage. A Place More Dark is unflinchingly gritty, relentlessly brutal, and thoroughly absorbing. Wrey's riveting narrative sheds light on the resilient nature of the human spirit that allows people to overcome extreme adversity in seemingly hopeless situations. The story is very much character-driven as it follows the harrowing journey of Jock and his close friends navigating extraordinary circumstances to survive one day at a time. Overall, this book will be right up their alley for any reader who enjoys historical fiction and craves a realistic depiction of war in stories. Highly recommended!” P Deka, Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Review

“Nathaniel M. Wrey brings back the horrors of World War II through the perspectives of those tragically imprisoned. He blends the facts with fiction, showing deep character development to unite a diverse group of individuals, each with their distinct backgrounds but a shared objective. Their conversations are unique, revealing an array of topics laced with dark humor, and offering a glimpse into the unspoken experiences of some survivors. The meticulous attention to detail captures significant elements, such as the tensions between Wehrmacht and SS personnel in the camps and the gory aftermath of the Allied bombings. What's striking about Wrey's narrative style is how vividly he conveys his characters' emotions, allowing readers to experience the hopes and fears alongside Jock and his fellow inmates. A Place More Dark is a work of literary brilliance.” E Asian, Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Review

“A fantastic second book in the series. Once again I was gripped from start to finish. The combination of humour and sheer determination to survive was present through out the book. Looking forward to the final chapter.” Gwen, Amazon, 5 Star Review

“Wrey crafts a historical war story that spares no detail, confronting the barbarity of war with unflinching realism. His narrative recalls the raw intensity of Hemingway’s wartime prose and the methodical precision of Tom Clancy’s storytelling. Though this is the second novel in the series, newcomers will find it accessible, as the author deftly weaves essential backstory into the tale without slowing its momentum.

The novel’s tone is appropriately stark, yet Wrey’s prose has a way of shifting gears during pivotal moments. His descriptions become vivid and visceral when portraying the heinous acts of the SS, forcing readers to confront the raw brutality of these events. This deliberate contrast highlights the extremes of human cruelty and the fragile sparks of kindness and heroism that endure despite it.

Wrey’s careful attention to historical detail enriches the story, creating a backdrop that feels authentic and immersive. A Place More Dark is not a light or easy read. Its unflinching portrayal of war’s atrocities makes it a tough and sometimes harrowing experience. But for those willing to endure its darker passages, the book offers immense rewards. The character development is fantastic, the narrative is gripping, and the ending is satisfying. This is a story about the resilience of the human spirit in even the bleakest circumstances.

Fans of historical fiction, particularly those who appreciate stories steeped in wartime realism and moral complexity, will find much to admire. A Place More Dark is a powerful and unforgettable journey into the depths of humanity and the enduring light of courage.” Literary Titan, 5 Star Review

“A Place More Dark draws you into a chilling, snow-laden journey of resilience and friendship amidst the harshness of war. Jock Mitchell's tale is both haunting and heartwarming, revealing the strength of human spirit in the face of relentless adversity. The author's vivid descriptions and emotionally charged storytelling make every page compelling. It's a must-read for those who appreciate historical fiction that dives deep into human courage and camaraderie.” E Matthews GoodReads.com 5 Star Review

“Nathaniel M. Wrey masterfully transports readers to the brutal winter landscape where survival is as much a battle as the war itself. A Place More Dark showcases a gripping mix of danger, dark humor, and the indomitable will to endure. Jock Mitchell's struggles are portrayed with raw realism, making this novel impossible to put down. It’s a brilliantly crafted story of hope and brotherhood in the bleakest of times.” K Dillon, GoodReads.com 5 Star Review

“This book captures the essence of wartime suffering and solidarity with unparalleled depth and authenticity. Through Jock’s journey, we see the impact of war on both mind and body, leaving a profound impression on the reader. Wrey’s storytelling paints an immersive picture of the hardships endured and the bonds forged under the harshest conditions. A Place More Dark is a powerful read that resonates long after the last page.” A Saunders, GoodReads.com 5 Star Review