Many of us have done research on people who came from the vicinity of the city of Osnabrüch. We have also been helped, many of us by Anke Waldmann, to understand the local customs, such as the difference between a Vollerbe and a Halberbe.

Now this novel greatly enhances our understanding of the lives of the people circa 1800. It is very interesting in two ways: (1) it portrays the life style, and (2) it is a good story, more or less a mystery.

I highly recommend it.

This book has been researched for historical accuracy by Anke Waldmann and beautifully written by Katherine Gerlach. Having recently visited this area for Donna's grandfather's family roots twice, we visited an outdoor museum which showed many of the articles, castles, shops, farms and homes that are mentioned in this book. We also visited her grandfather's actual home.

However, after spending six days total in Osnabrueck and Bad Essen areas, we still had questions about their everyday lives. Now, having read the story, "Ann Angel's Freedom", we now can understand and appreciate the early life our ancestors lived--one that is far different from the ones we lead here in the USA.

My favorite part of the book was the wedding customs of the "wedding inviter"--the one who comes to invite guests to the wedding--such FUN! ! ! Other everyday life situations are told with both accuracy and great interest. Besides the description of typical German customs, one can also understand some of the political problems faced during the time period that the book covers. Descriptions of the mode of transportation, the buildings and homes, and problems faced during this time period are described with great detail.

I highly recommend the book for its accurate portrayal of German life in Northwestern Germany during the 1700's-1800's. Be sure to purchase a few for gifts for your relatives and friends, especially if their ancestors came from this area also. The book is wonderfully written, and I understand that there is to be a Book 2 shortly. We look forward to reading that as well to get even more insight into the day-to-day lives of our German ancestors.