Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson is celebrated for its gripping narrative and emotional depth, effectively portraying the complexities of loyalty and betrayal. Critics praise its historical accuracy and compelling court drama. However, some note that the prose can be overly simplistic and the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a poignant and thought-provoking read.

A reader who enjoys Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson is likely captivated by historical fiction centered on World War II, filled with mystery and complex human relationships. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find this novel's exploration of war-torn loyalties and redemption compelling.

Once We Were Brothers is a Jewish historical fiction novel and legal thriller that follows Ben Solomon, a Holocaust survivor in Chicago, who accuses philanthropist Elliot Rosenzweig of being Otto Piatek, a former Nazi officer who betrayed Ben's family during World War II; the story delves into their past in Nazi-occupied Poland and the subsequent legal battle to uncover the truth. The novel addresses themes of the Holocaust, war crimes, and the long-lasting impacts of wartime trauma.

Suspenseful / Emotional / Mysterious / Bittersweet / Inspirational

- Once We Were Brothers is both Ronald H. Balson's debut novel and the first installment in his series featuring lawyer Catherine Lockhart and private investigator Liam Taggart.
- Ronald H. Balson drew from his extensive experiences in historical research and legal background to craft the narrative of Once We Were Brothers.
- After its independent release, Once We Were Brothers gained popularity through word-of-mouth before being picked up by a major publisher, eventually becoming a national bestseller.

**Catherine Lockhart**  
A 39-year-old litigator working for a corporate law firm in Chicago, known for her dedication to justice despite a challenging professional past.

**Ben Solomon**  
An octogenarian Holocaust survivor living in Chicago, who initiates a legal case against a wealthy businessman he accuses of being a former Nazi SS officer.

**Elliot Rosenzweig**  
A retired billionaire and philanthropist, celebrated for his civic contributions in Chicago, whose true identity as Otto Piatek and past actions are central to the narrative conflict.

**Liam Taggart**  
A 41-year-old private investigator of Irish descent, known for his investigative skills and strong ethical commitment to supporting Ben’s case alongside Catherine.

**Hannah Weissbaum**  
Ben’s girlfriend and later wife, remembered fondly by Ben, who continues to connect with her spirit throughout the story.

**Elzbieta Krzyzecki**  
Otto’s loyal girlfriend before his time in the SS, who plays a crucial role in supporting Ben’s family and ultimately in the legal proceedings.

**Abraham Solomon**  
Ben’s father and a respected community leader, who provides guidance and leadership during the Nazi occupation.

**Beka Solomon**  
Ben’s younger sister, noted for her beauty, whose tragic fate underscores the cruelties of the Nazi regime.

**Lucyna**  
A young Jewish girl who becomes involved in the Polish resistance after being rescued from a forced prostitution ring.

**Father Janofski**  
A Catholic priest and resistance leader, who aids the Solomon family by providing shelter and support in their fight against the Nazis.

Ronald H. Balson

Adult

Novel

Liam Taggart & Catherine Lockhart

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Once We Were Brothers  Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part I: “The Confrontation”

Part I, Chapters 1-8

Once We Were Brothers  Part I, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Part II: “Ben Solomon’s Story”

Part II, Chapters 9-16

Once We Were Brothers  Part II, Chapters 9-16 Summary & Analysis

Part II, Chapters 17-24

Once We Were Brothers  Part II, Chapters 17-24 Summary & Analysis

Part II, Chapters 25-28

Once We Were Brothers  Part II, Chapters 25-28 Summary & Analysis

Part II, Chapters 29-35

Once We Were Brothers  Part II, Chapters 29-35 Summary & Analysis

Part III: “The Lawsuit”

Part III, Chapters 36-50

Once We Were Brothers  Part III, Chapters 36-50 Summary & Analysis

Part III, Chapter 51-Epilogue

Once We Were Brothers  Part III, Chapter 51-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Once We Were Brothers  Character Analysis

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Themes

Once We Were Brothers  Themes

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Once We Were Brothers  Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Once We Were Brothers  Important Quotes

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Once We Were Brothers  Essay Topics

Once We Were Brothers

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