Editorial Book Review: Bright One by Lisajoy Sachs

 

Bright One

By Lisajoy Sachs

Publication Date: 18th October 2025

Publisher: Historium Press

Page Length: 318

Genre: Historical World War II / Holocaust Fiction

When desperate choices mean the difference between life and death.

Inspired by true events, Bright One tells the story of Jetti Finkelthal, Lisajoy Sachs' great-grandmother. In Czernowitz, Romania, this young Jewish mother is forced to face impossible choices as the world begins to collapse around her. As antisemitism tightens its grip and war edges ever closer, Jetti holds fast to her daughter, Berta, with the fragile belief that love and courage might still carve a way through the darkness.

Heartened by her grandmother Berta's letters, photographs, and family oral histories, Sachs revives a story both intimate and universal-stitched with the fabric of daily life, the pull of memory, and the quiet heroism of women who refused to yield to despair. Told with vivid, sensory detail, the novel unfolds as if you are walking beside the characters, witnessing what they see and sharing what they feel.

Through Jetti's resilience and sacrifices, Bright One reveals the enduring strength of family ties and the shadow of trauma that lingers across generations. It is a story of survival, of loss, and of the unbreakable connection between mother and child.

For readers captivated by historical fiction that lingers long after the final page, Bright One offers a profoundly human portrait of love tested by history's darkest hours.

Drawing inspiration from real events and people, “Bright One” by Lisajoy Sachs is a profoundly emotional journey that intricately explores the life of Jetti Finkelthal. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the narrative brings to life Jetti’s hardships and achievements, inviting readers into her world where hope and resilience intertwine.

Throughout her tumultuous journey, Jetti grapples with harrowing themes of abandonment, the ravages of war, the strain of illness, and the heavy shadows of grief that shape her experiences and fortify her resilience. The narrative intricately delves into her struggles and triumphs, painting a vivid tableau of her emotional distress, as well as the profound impact of her tumultuous past has on her present reality. With deftness and sensitivity, Sachs masterfully captures the complexity of Jetti’s character, allowing her story to resonate deeply with readers who embark on this emotional odyssey alongside her, witnessing her relentless fight for healing and hope despite overwhelming adversity. With the arrival of her daughter, Berta, a glimmer of belonging and newfound purpose ignites within Jetti, filling her heart with a fierce resolve to prioritise her child above all else. Yet, as the world around them begins to unravel, and the shadow of violence looms ever closer, Jetti finds herself faced with an agonising decision. The pursuit of what is best for her daughter demands an unimaginable sacrifice, forcing her to confront the depths of her love and the harrowing choices that come with it. Jetti is a deeply captivating character whose journey embodies remarkable resilience in the face of life’s adversities. Her narrative unfolds with an authenticity that makes her feel strikingly real. As she grapples with the profound loss of loved ones, the emotional toll on her spirit becomes poignantly evident, illuminating the depth of her grief. Unlike one-dimensional characters who simply shake off their challenges and press on, Jetti immerses herself in her pain, feeling every moment with an intensity that reflects her inner turmoil. Her struggles resonate on a universal level, showcasing not only the impact of her trauma but also her capacity for growth and healing. Through her relatable experiences of heartache, self-discovery, and joy in motherhood, she forges a powerful connection with anyone who encounters her story. Readers find themselves emotionally invested in her journey, drawn into the intricacies of her character, and inspired by her unwavering strength to face life’s trials with vulnerability and courage.

Although Joel, Jetti’s husband, makes only a fleeting appearance in the narrative, his experiences during the war are heartbreakingly intense and deeply affecting. Now that the echoes of gunfire have faded and the conflict has drawn to a close, he is left grappling with a deep sense of loss and disconnection. With his family having embarked on a new life in the bustling streets of New York, Joel feels adrift, tethered only to Jetti—yet the bond they once shared feels frayed and distant, as if they are mere strangers fated to pass each other by. Joel is a richly developed character, his internal struggles and the emotional scars etched into his psyche vividly articulated. As he contemplates the impending reunion with Jetti, a swell of anxiety consumes him—Will her love for him remain unchanged? Can he be worthy of her devotion after the war has fundamentally altered his sense of self? The reader can sense the tumultuous emotions swirling within Joel, a storm of doubt and fear. However, his fateful decision to leave Jetti without so much as a word casts a shadow over his turmoil, rendering his actions seemingly unforgivable. This lack of communication not only deepens his isolation but also accentuates the vast chasm that the war has carved between them, leaving both characters to navigate the heavy silence of unvoiced feelings and unresolved heartache.

The book features a vibrant array of supporting characters, each adding depth to the narrative. However, the grim realities of war and the relentless grip of the Spanish flu take a heavy toll, leading to the tragic loss of many. As these characters are swept away by fate, Jetti finds herself locked in a fierce struggle, grappling with the emotional aftermath and the weight of their absence.

The narrative unfolds with a lush, evocative depth, intricately weaving together a vibrant tapestry of sensory details that beckon readers to immerse themselves in a world brimming with life and emotion. The author’s voice glides gracefully across the pages, infusing the text with a profound emotional resonance and an undeniable sense of historical authenticity. Each carefully crafted phrase paints a strikingly vivid picture, capturing the delicate beauty and intricate fragility of the Finkelthal family’s existence. Through rich imagery and expressive figurative language, the story blossoms like a cherished memory, inviting readers to bask in the warmth of familial connections and the soft, haunting whispers of the past.

The novel opens in 1917, presenting the setting of Czernowitz with vivid imagery. At the heart of this story stands a grand mansion that whispers stories of opulence and privilege. Inside, the library opens like a hidden treasure chest. This estate serves as a sanctuary of affluence and stability, contrasting sharply with the turmoil brewing just beyond its gates. As the years progress, Czernowitz, with its lively marketplace bursting with a kaleidoscope of colours and sounds, exudes an air of multicultural charm. It is a place where the laughter of children mingles with the calls of merchants peddling their wares. However, the community faces new challenges as the tendrils of anti-Semitism begin to creep into their lives. The vibrancy of Czernowitz starts to wither under a looming shadow that drapes over the landscape, filling the once-joyous streets with an unsettling fear and a palpable sense of uncertainty. The charm and warmth of this beloved city are increasingly tarnished. Although Jetti does not want to scare her child, she is acutely aware that their haven is under a silent siege, transforming their playground into a place haunted by the spectre of intolerance.

“Bright One” by Lisajoy Sachs is an incredibly moving tale that resonates deeply with the reader, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned. With its evocative prose and richly drawn characters, this story captures the complexities of human emotions and relationships, ensuring that its themes echo in the minds of those who embark on this heartfelt journey into the life of Jetti Finkelthal and her family.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
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Lisajoy Sachs

Lisajoy Sachs is a dedicated writer, beer enthusiast, and passionate advocate for preserving history and culture through storytelling. Born and raised on Long Island and in New York’s Hudson Valley, her early years were shaped by the striking contrast of mountains and sea. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in community and tradition, Lisajoy developed a lifelong appreciation for connection, creativity, and cultural heritage.

Her professional journey is as dynamic as her personal interests. With a career that spans Fine Arts, Interior Design, Metalsmithing, Lapidary, and the craft beer and hospitality industries, Lisajoy has cultivated a rich and diverse foundation of knowledge and experience.

She holds several distinguished degrees and certifications, including a Master of Fine Arts from the City University of New York and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University. Additionally, she is an Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP) through the Gemological Institute of America. In the beer world, Lisajoy is a graduate of Yakima Chief Hops’ Hop & Brew School and a Cicerone® Certified Beer Server, reflecting her expertise and passion for the craft.

As a writer, Lisajoy explores a wide range of topics—from beer culture and community engagement to historical fiction, which remains closest to her heart. Her work reflects a deep respect for the past and a fascination with how personal stories intersect with larger historical movements. She has published multiple articles highlighting how the craft beer industry promotes diversity and unity and continues to inspire readers with her thoughtful and emotionally resonant storytelling.

Lisajoy’s fiction is driven by a passion for history and family heritage, often set against vividly imagined backdrops and featuring characters navigating profound social and personal change. Whether capturing the resilience of refugees in pre-WWII Europe or illuminating the quiet strength of individuals in times of upheaval, her stories bring authenticity, emotion, and depth to the page.

Outside her professional life, Lisajoy is an avid cyclist and skier. Alongside her partner and their dog Hops, she travels in their camper van to explore new landscapes and seek out adventure.

Through her creative pursuits and professional endeavors, Lisajoy Sachs continues to bridge the gap between history, culture, and the shared human experience—bringing voice and visibility to the stories that matter most.

Connect with Lisajoy Sachs:

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