Yarde Reviews & Book Promotion: Editorial Book Review: The Blood Tattoos by Jana Petken

The Blood Tattoos
By Jana Petken

Publication Date: 29th September 2025

Publisher: JCP Publishing

Genre: Historical Fiction

After years of living in America, two Germans return to Berlin and enlist in the Waffen-SS. Bonded by duty, conscience, and their love for the United States, they struggle to separate soldiering from Nazi ideology.

An American at heart, Uwe Polkaehn finds that in the SS, loyalty to Adolf Hitler is more important than being a good soldier. From Berlin to Belgium, France, Holland and the Eastern Front, he and the SS-Das Reich Division spearhead the Führer’s drive across Western and Eastern Europe.

Lukas Querner, the son of an admiral in the German Kriegsmarine, returns reluctantly to Hamburg after six years at Harvard University. After refusing to follow his father into the Kriegsmarine, he volunteers for the SS, believing the armed wing is the elite fighting force that will battle the enemy with honour..

During training, Uwe and Lukas meet Otto Skorzeny, an enigmatic SS officer. After impressing the Führer, Otto transfers the two men to a new Special Formation commando unit that will perform the most dangerous undercover missions of the war.

No longer in the SS, Uwe and Lukas push themselves to the limits of their endurance and admit they are living on borrowed time.

“The Blood Tattoos” by Jana Petken is an enthralling and beautifully crafted story that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships against the backdrop of World War II. This gripping historical fiction not only brings to life the harrowing experiences of its characters but also offers a profound exploration of themes such as courage, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of war.

Lukas Querner had recently returned from a six-year enriching experience at Harvard University, filled with hopes of beginning his teaching career. However, the looming threat of war in Europe had cast a dark shadow over his aspirations. Consequently, when Lukas received his call-up papers requesting his enlistment, he found himself surprisingly unsurprised by the development. Coming from a lineage of military tradition, being the son of an admiral in the Kriegsmarine, it seemed almost inevitable that he would follow a similar path. Despite his father’s esteemed position in the navy, Lukas faced a significant challenge: he suffered from severe seasickness. This disadvantage led him to make a critical decision—rather than joining the Kriegsmarine like his father, he chose to enlist in the SS. This choice was met with intense disapproval from his father, who had deep reservations about the SS’s tactics and ideology. Yet, driven by a sense of conviction and determination, Lukas was resolute in his decision. As the narrative develops, Lukas embarks on a journey that exposes him to the grim realities of war and the moral complexities involved. Through his experiences, he battles with the disillusionment that comes with understanding the consequences of his choices. Gradually, he begins to see the validity of his father’s concerns, realising not only that his father had been right all along but also that he had entered this new world with a naïve understanding of its true nature and the moral dilemmas it posed. Lukas is an exceptionally likeable character who embodies a deep sense of humanity despite his role as a soldier. He is not a cruel man, for he displays a moral compass that sets him apart in the harsh realities of war. His experiences, especially those endured on the Eastern Front, are harrowing and traumatic, providing a gritty and realistic perspective of combat. These experiences shape him into a complex individual, revealing both his vulnerabilities and his strengths, which resonate deeply with the reader. The way his character navigates the challenges of warfare adds depth to the narrative, making him feel authentically human in a brutal and unforgiving environment.

Uwe Polkaehn had never wanted anything to do with the war; he didn’t even feel German after growing up in America. As the son of a Bund leader, Uwe had been raised amidst the rhetoric of nationalism, but it clashed violently with his personal beliefs. The night before his father’s murder, Uwe had burned his Bund uniform, wanting nothing more to do with it. In the wake of their father’s death, his mother became increasingly obsessed with returning to Germany—the land of her youth. With a powerful sense of nostalgia guiding her, she cleverly coerced Uwe and his sister, Lisbeth, to follow her back to a country that felt foreign and unwelcoming. Uwe is a very earnest character, and he views Hitler and the party with scepticism, recognising the growing shadows of tyranny creeping into everyday life. His internal conflict grew more intense when Lisbeth found herself in peril with the SS. He is given two options: if he wants to protect his sister, then he has to enlist in the Waffen-SS; if he does not, something terrible will happen to her. The ultimatum was clear: his subservience to an ideology he despised was the only way to secure Lisbeth’s safety. Once in the ranks, Uwe honed his skills and became a model soldier, performing his duties with an outward facade of loyalty. Yet inside, a storm of doubt and moral turmoil raged. He had learned the art of silence, withholding his true feelings as he marched alongside soldiers who fervently embraced the Nazi ideals. It was at training camp where he met Lukas, whose own disillusionment mirrored Uwe’s. Their friendship formed amidst the cacophony of war. Lukas became more than a companion; he was a kindred spirit, sharing Uwe’s yearning for something beyond the battlefield. As the bitter Russian winter enveloped them in a relentless grip, the two navigated not only the treacherous terrain but also the emotional landscape of their experiences. They endured the madness of relentless offensives, the uncertainty of shifting frontlines, and the frigid winds that seemed to seep into their very souls. Together, they forged an unbreakable bond, finding solace in shared laughter, whispered hopes, and a mutual understanding that transcended their external circumstances. In the face of unimaginable adversity, their friendship was a refuge—a bright light against the dark backdrop of war. Uwe is an exceedingly likeable character, known for his good-natured demeanour and unwavering empathy, although he is handy with his fists! However, he finds himself trapped in a harrowing world that feels entirely foreign to him. This setting forces him into silence; he cannot express his true feelings or intervene when he witnesses the horrific violence perpetrated against the Jewish community. Uwe is compelled to blend into his surroundings at all times, adopting a façade that masks his inner turmoil. In one particularly haunting scene, Uwe feels an overwhelming sense of obligation to accompany a group participating in a Jewish hunt through a dense Russian forest. Although he refuses to take part in the brutality, he grapples with his own conscience as he witnesses three Jewish individuals being rounded up. The atmosphere is charged with fear and despair, typical of the oppressive environment he inhabits. As he stands by, he is forced to confront the grim reality of his situation when he watches helplessly as a young woman is subjected to horrific acts of violence, being raped repeatedly in front of him. The necessity of maintaining his disguise prevents him from showing solidarity with those who suffer, isolating him emotionally and morally. Ultimately, Uwe’s struggle exemplifies the profound challenges faced by individuals caught in a morally ambiguous landscape.

Lisbeth is a character who often elicits frustration from the reader due to her impulsive nature and unwavering convictions. Born in America, she finds it nearly impossible to adapt to the cultural and political atmosphere in Germany. Instead of quietly accepting her situation, Lisbeth feels compelled to voice her discontent, expressing her strong opinions about the regime and the surrounding society. Her longing to return to the United States leads her to seek a means of escape, which ultimately draws the attention of the SS and puts her in perilous situations. In her moment of desperation, Lisbeth turns to her brother for assistance. While he manages to secure her freedom, it comes at a significant cost to him. Despite the relief this arrangement provides, Lisbeth finds it increasingly difficult to suppress her outspoken thoughts, which continue to put her at risk. Though she occupies a secondary role in the narrative, Lisbeth’s rebellious spirit and desire for freedom significantly impact the course of the story. Her refusal to conform drives the plot forward and generates conflict. However, when she ultimately chooses to conform, her journey becomes even more dangerous, and the reader can only hope that she emerges unscathed in the end.

This novel features a rich array of secondary characters, blending historical figures with imaginative creations. Each character adds depth and nuance to the narrative, enhancing the storyline and enriching the reader’s experience. Their unique perspectives, motivations, and interactions not only support the main plot but also create memorable moments that resonate throughout the book, making it a truly captivating read.

Petken skilfully brings the era to life through her detailed settings. The SS headquarters is vividly depicted, showcasing its imposing architecture and intimidating atmosphere, which evoke a sense of paranoia. The intricate details of the building, the uniforms, and the characters’ interactions create a compelling immersion into the dark world of Nazi Germany. This setting is essential to the story’s themes of oppression, fear, and moral compromise. Specific locations, such as the Main Reich Security Office and the Querner household, help establish a strong sense of place and enhance the overall atmosphere. Similarly, the Russian landscape is vividly described, highlighting the harsh winter conditions and the war-torn towns. This setting plays a crucial role in the story, contributing to feelings of despair and isolation. The imagery of snow, rubble, and destruction creates a powerful atmosphere, grounding the reader in the brutal reality of the Eastern Front.

The dedication to crafting a historically rich narrative set amid war, uncertainty, fear, and genocide is exceptionally commendable. Petken draws a stark and harrowing picture of the actions of the SS, vividly illustrating their cruelty and violence. Yet, she does not merely focus on the darkness; she also delves into the friendships that develop among the soldiers, showcasing the bonds forged in the face of adversity. As they march into battle, Petken adeptly conveys the palpable fear that grips them, a fear that permeates their thoughts and actions. Moreover, she captures the complex emotions experienced by characters like Lukas and Uwe, who are engulfed in a whirlwind of disgust and horror, struggling to confront the atrocities they witness—cold-blooded murder, rape, and torture. Their inability to articulate their feelings of revulsion adds a poignant layer to the narrative.

Petken’s masterful depiction of the psychological toll that war takes on the characters is especially striking as the story unfolds on the Eastern Front. The characters are not only faced with external battles but also engage in an internal struggle as they grapple with their moral dilemmas and the toll that such violence exacts on their humanity. This multifaceted approach enriches the narrative, providing readers with a profound understanding of war’s devastating impact on the psyche.

For readers who are passionate about history and enjoy narratives set during this turbulent time, “The Blood Tattoos” is an absolute must-read. Petken’s vivid prose and well-researched details immerse the reader in the era, making them feel as though they are witnessing history unfold. This novel promises to leave a lasting impression, resonating deeply with those who appreciate rich storytelling and compelling character development.

This book comes highly recommended.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde

Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion

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Jana Petken

Jana Petken is critically acclaimed as a bestselling, gritty author who produces bold, colourful characters and riveting storylines. She is the recipient of numerous major international awards for her works of historical fiction.

Before life as an author, she served in the British Royal Navy. During her service, she studied Naval Law and history. After the Navy, she worked for British Airways and turned to writing after an accident on board an aircraft forced her to retire prematurely.

Titles by Jana Petken.

Bestseller, Multi Award Winning, The Guardian of Secrets. (2013)

The bestselling Mercy Carver Series: award-winning, Dark Shadows, book 1, and award-winning Blood Moon, book 2. (2014)

Multi Award Winning, The Errant Flock: The Flock Trilogy Book 1. (2015)

Multi Award Winning, Swearing Allegiance. (2016)

Award Winning, The Scattered Flock (The Flock Trilogy book 2)

Award Winning, Flock, The Gathering of The Damned (The Flock Trilogy Book 3)

Multi-Award-Winning, The German Half-Bloods The German Half-Bloods Trilogy Book 1 (2018)

The Vogels: On All Fronts. The German Half-Bloods (Book 2)

Multi Award winning |Bestseller Before the Brightest Dawn. The German Half-Bloods (Book 3)

Oath of Allegiance (2020)

Dawn of Ages (2021)