Jennifer S. Brown’s The Whisper Sister broke my heart. Over and over. And I am telling everyone I know to read it.

The Whisper Sister is the story of Minnie Soffer, a young Ukranian Jewish woman who moves with her mother and brother to New York City in 1920. Her father moved to America at the end of 1913 and, when she steps through the outer thresholds of Ellis Island, she can barely recognize the man who she hasn’t seen in seven years. He has shaved his beard and no longer wears traditional Jewish attire. “You will see how America works,” her papa says. “Everything is different.”

Minnie’s is a coming-of-age story that grips a reader with moments of honesty, heartbreak, and hope. Against the backdrop of Prohibition, the reader sees the stark reality of poverty and prejudice faced by early 20th-century immigrants in New York. Minnie’s name (originally Malka) is Americanized, she is put into a school that conducts classes in English when she only speaks Yiddish, and she and her brother Max are victims of gang violence. Life is difficult, and she wonders whether the “American Dream” is truly worthwhile.

As she grows into a young woman, however, Minnie finds her courage and spark to find her own way in the city. Forced to leave school and work to support the family’s income, Minnie becomes street smart. She finds that she has quite a bit in common with her father, including their shared secret of his Lower East End speakeasy that fronts as a soda shop. Minnie begins to spend more time learning about the profit and danger to be had in the underground bar scene. Maybe someday, she thinks, she’ll become a “whisper sister”: a woman who serves alcohol in a speakeasy.

A series of family tragedies makes the decision for her, and Minnie is forced into ownership of the speakeasy sooner than she expects. I loved reading about the transformation of the bar — and of Minnie herself — after she takes over the place. She is fierce and vulnerable at the same time. She has a huge learning curve but is clever and resilient. There was not a moment in this story when I wasn’t rooting for Minnie to succeed.

Brown’s portrayal of Minnie’s point of view is so vivid that her grief, loneliness, and weariness are palpable. I wish I could share the instances that brought me to tears alongside Minnie in her teenage years, mourning the loss of a significant figure in her life, yet I want to avoid spoilers. Suffice it to say, Brown has a remarkable talent for depicting a character’s sorrow with profound sensitivity.

"How many people can you lose and still remain whole? How many tiny rips can your heart take before it shreds into pieces too small to repair? … What must my heart look like, with chinks and fissures that would never heal?"

“The Whisper Sister” is an exceptional work of historical fiction. Don’t miss this one!

An amazing historical fiction book that I absolutely devoured the book immediately
A lot of fun
4.5 Stars
This story is set from the 1920's to mid 1930's.

Thank you GetRedPRBooks, Jennifer Brown, Lake Union for my #gifted copies of The Whisper Sister! #TheWhisperSister #LakeUnion #lakeunionpublishing #lakeunionauthors #historicalfiction #JenniferSBrown

𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐉𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐒. 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

𝟱★(𝗕𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗦)

A MUST READ! This book will be one of my favorite historical fiction books of the year. I devoured this book and cannot stop thinking about it! I loved everything about this and fell in love with the courage and tenacity of the main character, Minnie Soffer from the very start. Coming-of-age novels are some of my favorite, and I love how this one was also a blend of historical fiction, set in the Prohibition era of New York. Arriving in America from Ukraine as a toddler, Minnie, along with her brother Max, feel like they don’t belong. Her father, Ike, opens a soda shop, but Minnie soon finds out the soda shop is a front for a speakeasy. When tragedy strikes, Minnie has no choice but to step up and take over and run the bar. Determined to become a US citizen and also make her family proud, she does everything in her power to succeed.

I found this book to be so fascinating. I loved Minnie so much and all of the sacrifices she made for her family. She experienced so much heartbreak and had to grow up faster than most, but I just loved how she never gave up and pushed forward for her mother and her father. I learned so much about speakeasies and the prohibition period and this book was truly just so good. I cannot recommend it enough. I could not read it fast enough, but at the same time, I did not want it to end!

Posted on Goodreads on August 29, 2024: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/144922955?ref=nav_profile_l
**Posted on Instagram - Full Review- on or around August 29, 2024: http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
**Posted on Amazon on September 3, 2024
**-will post on designated date

Wow wow!

These are the kinds of historical fiction I want more of. Unique perspectives and stories that challenge me and increase my understanding of the true American Dream.

Minnie Soffer comes to the states with promises of change from her father. Minnie quickly realizes that her father’s promises become empty and America is not the idealistic picture that it was painted to be.

How will a young immigrant girl make it in a big messy city like New York? It’s not easy that’s for sure. There is heartbreak, backstabbing, mobs, speakeasies, and lots of adversity.

This book is a beautiful story of a coming of age, and growing up in a world where the odds seemed stacked against you. By the end you are in tears because you are so proud of the woman that Minnie became.

I want to extend my thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union for a ARC in exchange for this review.
Releasing: 9/3/24

A well written look at life on the grittier side in 1920s-30s New York City through the eyes of Minnie, a Ukrainian immigrant who discovers the US is far different than she thought it would be. Her father's involvement with the mob, her mother's clinging to the old ways, her own life- all changes when she has to take over. And she moves forward in ways even she didn't expect, Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read.

This book is an absolute page turner.

It had me on the edge of my seat questioning what would happen next. We didn’t learn much about this era in school so hearing a perspective (although fictional) it seemed real and like I was in the book going through the prohibition.

Wow! Now this is how I love my Historicals!

The story and writing is divine! This captivated me from beginning to end.

This is the story of the Soffer family that focuses on the eldest daughter, Malaka "Minnie."
"Home is where your people are.

On January 17, 1920 prohibition began in the United States. That is the day Minnie and her mother and brother stepped onto Ellis Island in New York. Minnie's father was awaiting his family's arrival from Ukraine. This was to be a new start for the family. A new life filled with hopes and dreams and some reservations.

The Soffer's are a Jewish family that settle in the lower East side of New York City. They are struggling to survive but have the love of family and their community on their side. The father makes a decision that will impact the family and especially Minnie for years to come.

This story is set from the 1920's to mid 1930's. An era that fascinates me. It's about the grittier side of that time when mobsters and speakeasies ruled the town. A story about doing what it takes to survive even if it's not what you really want to do. This definitely pulled at the heartstrings ❤️‍🩹 If you are a lover of Historical Fiction you won't want to miss this one! Highly recommended!

What a wonderful historical fiction book! I have always loved books about New York City in the early 1900’s so I was really excited to read this book and I was not disappointed. Minnie arrives in New York City hoping for the American Dream. But everything is different in New York City, including her father, and Minnie has to learn how to navigate this new world. When her world is rocked by tragedies Minnie has to take control of the family business. Not only is she working in a man’s world but she also works for gangsters and is mixing business with pleasure. Will Minnie be able to survive to achieve her American Dream? Minnie was an excellent character, strong, determined and willing to do what was necessary to survive. The writing pulled me into Minnie’s world and I could not put it down. I highly recommend this book for readers of historical fiction or for readers that like family sagas with strong female characters.

I was not overly interested in prohibition before Jennifer Brown's The Whisper Sister crossed my screen. I did not know what a Whisper Sister was but wanted to take a chance on this book.
Minnie, the whisper sister, immigrated to the USA from Ukraine with her mother and brother at the beginning of prohibition. She was launched into a strange place where her father worked for the mob and her mother clung to the old world. Will Minnie follow her father's lead or carry on her mother's traditions?
I devoured this book. I want more from Jennifer Brown. I want more from this era and more Jewish stories. This book will wrap you up in Minnie's world of discovery, heartache, tragedy, triumph, love and friendship.
If you have interest in historical fiction, prohibition, relationships, and perseverance - this is a must read.

This is the story of the Soffer family, a Jewish Ukrainian family who emigrated to New York during the 1920s, just as Prohibition was declared. The young daughter, Minnie, is our central character.

I really enjoy reading about different time periods. In this case, times were hard for immigrants. New York was full of gangs claiming neighbourhoods as their territories. There were speakeasies, bootlegging and lots of tough times. It was legal on job applications to ask your religion. Many would not hire Jews or Catholics.

Whisper Sister is an expression I had not heard of. It refers to an outlaw woman who runs an underground bar. I'm always happy to learn something new. It might come in handy someday while I’m watching Jeopardy. The story enters the dark world of illegal bars and speakeasies that were so common during the prohibition.

This is a longish book but it flies by. The story is well written and keeps the reader's interest. The characters are well described, I can picture many of them. Minnie, the main character, turns out to be a very strong and determined woman because of life's circumstances.

I appreciate it when the author leaves notes at the end. For this book, Ms Brown described how terrible Prohibition was with the dangers of the underworld and payoff demands.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

Thank you to NetGalley, Jennifer S. Brown and Lake Union Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read The Whisper Sister and give my honest review!

I am still so awestruck by this book - it's hard for me to put it in any other words besides...this was a beautiful masterpiece. The Whisper Sister follows the Soffer family, with the focus on the daughter Minnie, as they immigrate to NYC during the prohibition era and begin to forge a new life. We watch Minnie grow from middle school age into a young adult.

Minnie's growth journey was so beautiful to watch, and it's one that I feel many women can relate to. A short review doesn't encapsulate everything, but we watch Minnie truly find her identity as an individual but also exploring her sub-identities, as an immigrant, a woman, a business woman, and so much more!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself laughing, loving, and crying along with Minnie. Fans of historical fiction and Kristin Hannah will definitely enjoy this book. The Whisper Sister publishes 9/3/24, so keep your eyes out!

Minnie Soffer arrives at Ellis Island with her mom and brother to meet their dad that arrived in the US 7 years earlier. Unfortunately, in an attempt to make money her dad is in with the wrong crowd. Minnie is a very headstrong girl and gets herself involved with her father's affairs including a speakeasy. I loved the title, The Whisper Sisters, and it is explained in the book and is perfect. I learned a lot about life during prohibition and life was hard for Minnie, but I was rooting for her character and her attempts to make the best out of her situation.
I am an EL teacher to elementary students learning English. Some are born in the US and others are new to the US. Many students and parents at times struggle with maintaining their culture/beliefs and assimilating and learning English in the US. In this book we learn about name changes, lack of birthdates (due to the Gregorian calendar, etc.) I felt many parallels to Minnie as she tries to navigate life in NYC, but things are different from what her mom knew in their home country just like many of my students. Thank you to Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing, GetRedPR and Kate Rock Book Tours for the opportunity to read this book. I loved it and highly recommend it. It will be out on Sept 3, 2024!

Jennifer S. Brown’s *The Whisper Sister* is a captivating exploration of the immigrant experience in 1920s New York City, seamlessly blending historical accuracy with an immersive narrative that draws readers into a world brimming with hope, struggle, and the pursuit of the American dream. Following the journey of young Minnie Soffer and her family as they navigate the complexities of their new life, Brown crafts a poignant story that resonates with universal themes of identity, responsibility, and the weight of familial expectations.

From the moment they arrive at Ellis Island, Minnie’s dreams clash with the harsh realities of their new environment. Living in cramped conditions and struggling with language barriers, her determination to assimilate and thrive is both inspiring and relatable. Brown expertly portrays Minnie's evolution from a frightened immigrant child to a determined young woman who bravely steps into a male-dominated world, managing her father's speakeasy amidst the chaos of Prohibition.

The character development in *The Whisper Sister* is particularly commendable. Minnie is depicted with raw authenticity; her struggles, ambitions, and moral dilemmas are woven intricately into the fabric of the story. Brown paints a vivid picture of her family dynamics, illustrating the tension between Minnie’s ambitions and her familial duties. Each character is multifaceted—a mixture of strengths and vulnerabilities—that adds depth to this historical tapestry.

The atmosphere of 1920s New York is richly depicted, with Brown's detailed descriptions of speakeasies, gangsters, and the vibrant, yet dangerous, underbelly of the city making it easy for readers to feel transported back in time. The author’s attention to historical detail not only enhances the narrative but also sheds light on the societal challenges faced by immigrants during this tumultuous period.

What I particularly loved about *The Whisper Sister* is its exploration of the American dream and the sacrifices made in its pursuit. Minnie’s journey is a testament to resilience and courage—qualities that many can relate to today, making her story timeless. Brown balances the charm and allure of the Roaring Twenties with the stark realities of life as an immigrant, provoking thought about the true costs of success and belonging.

In conclusion, *The Whisper Sister* is a beautifully crafted novel that captivates with its rich characters and evocative setting. Jennifer S. Brown has crafted a powerful story that not only entertains but also encourages reflection on the meaning of family, identity, and the sacrifices one makes in the quest for a better life. This book is a perfect addition to any historical fiction lover's collection and is sure to resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

I read some fabulous reviews of this Prohibition-era saga before I dove in. I’m glad to report that Jennifer S Brown’s newest lives up to them, in my opinion. I was wowed with this brilliant and detailed book. Minnie is a heroine sure to captivate any reader.

Thank you, Jennifer S Brown, Kate Rock, Get Red PR Books, Amazon Publishing, Lake Union Publishing, & Netgalley, for my gifted copy! All opinions are my own.

An immigrant family comes to the US from Ukraine and stumbles into a life they hadn't imagine. Dad finds work with the mob and ends up opening a speakeasy. When tragedy after tragedy strikes, the speakeasy falls to Minnie and she finds her own.

This book made me feel so many things! This is the first book in ages that I legitimately cried during. Sometimes I will get wet eyes, but this one had me reaching for the tissues with tears streaming down my face. The writing was so immersive, and I was transported directly into the 1920's, feeling Minnie's fear, desire, thrill, confidence, despair. I couldn't put it down and was so sad when it was over. I find the 1920's fascinating and I think this was an excellent portrait of some of the difficulties of that time. This is a book I definitely plan to reread. I loved every minute of it.

This is one of my favorite time periods to read about and this book does not disappoint. Minnie grows up to a smart, strong willed woman striving for the American dream. Immigrating to New York as a young child she learns how navigate this new life that comes with many hardships and heartaches. Minnie must learn to navigate the criminal world when she decides she would be the best choice to take over her fathers business and become a Whisper Sister. With so many twists and turns throughout New Yorks dangerous underworld this book will keep you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning. Highly recommended!

What an incredible book. I was so captivated that I finished it in one sitting.
Jennifer S. Brown tdjes us on a heart-wrenching but thrilling journey through the 1920 -1932 Prohibition era in New Yirk City and a young girl's struggle to provide for her family.
Minnie is a very strong main female character. She is ready to sacrifice and do whatever it takes to provide for her brothers and sisters. She is independent, resilient, and strong-willed in a time when women were less than .
Brown's side characters were also quite extraordinary and vividly depicted. I was completely invested in their stories.

Brown vividly portrays New York and its people. Her description of the gritty, dimly lit speakeasies was purely captivating. I loved learning what it took to run one and the danger, the mobsters and violence that came with being an owner. I also enjoyed learning about what a Whisper Sister is.

I learned so much of a history that was never mentioned in our school books.. This story is a must-read for historical fiction lovers or anyone who is interested in the underground life in NYC.

Thank you to Netgally, Lake Union Publishing abd Jennifer S Brown for my copy.

A sensational story which is still with me. Minnie is a young immigrant girl from Ukraine. She is in New York City during the Prohibition era. The story follows her family during all their difficulties. Minnie’s father, Ike, bought a soda shop but it is really a front for a speakeasy. After Ike is sent to prison for ten years Minnie decides she must run the speakeasy. She decides to redecorate, upgrade the drinks , draw in more elite clientele and make it a success. The story is amazing and the characters too.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A fantastic, female empowering historical fiction that follows the tragedies and triumphs of a young immigrant girl as she strives to save herself and her family during the Prohibition. The author's wonderful attention to detail and the ability to create a window into life in 1920's America kept me reading late into the night. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more by Ms. Brown.

Do you know what a whisper sister is?? I didn’t! I love when reading teaches me something! One day, it’ll be a clue on Jeopardy and I’ll get it right! 😉 I loved this story. It’s another one that I feel like is important. Minnie and her brother (and mother) immigrate to NYC after their father. As Jews from Ukraine, they don’t speak English, are given American names, have a hard time in school. The story follows Minnie as she grows up Jewish and not yet an American citizen in a time that was really hard for women. But Minnie is a survivor. Hard times continue to fall on her family, but she perseveres. I loved the ending. So fitting and a breath of fresh air.