Echoes of Freedom

A Tale of Courage and Hope in a Time of War

Set against the haunting backdrop of Nazi-occupied Prague, Echos of Freedom by Raven Wolf is a stirring novel of resilience, love, and the quiet strength found in the face of unthinkable loss. When young Eliska’s life is upended by the brutal arrival of war, she must navigate a world where nothing is safe and everything she once knew is changed forever.

Accompanied by her loyal friend Vaclav and her steadfast uncle Daniel, Eliska embarks on a perilous journey—one that demands courage beyond her years and a fierce determination to survive. As they move through a landscape marked by fear and destruction, they find flickers of light: in human connection, in acts of kindness, and in the dream of a life rebuilt far from the echo of gunfire.

Eloquent and deeply human, Echos of Freedom explores the long shadows of trauma and the healing power of love and friendship. It is a powerful reminder that even in humanity’s darkest hour, hope endures.

Start reading Echos of Freedom today and experience a story where bravery begins with a single step toward the light.

Excerpt from the book

Prague, May 1945

The sun rose over the Vltava River, casting a warm glow over the city of Prague. Children played in the streets, laughing and chasing each other in the early morning mist. Amidst the vibrant scene, Eliska walked hand in hand with her mother, Marie, toward the local bakery.

As they approached the familiar shop, the rich aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of blooming lilacs from nearby gardens. Eliska’s stomach rumbled in anticipation, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Can we get some koláče today, Mama?” she asked, her voice filled with hope.

Marie smiled down at her daughter, her heart swelling with affection. “Of course, my sweetheart. Just a few, though. We need to save some money for the market later.” They entered the bakery, the bell above the door jingling cheerfully.

Inside, the warm atmosphere enveloped them. The baker, a stout man with flour-dusted hands, greeted them with a wide grin. “Ah, Eliska! Back for more of my famous koláče, I see!” he chuckled, reaching for a tray filled with the sweet pastries.

As Marie exchanged coins for the treats, Eliska’s gaze wandered to the window, where the bustling street outside was alive with activity. But beneath the laughter and chatter, a tension hung in the air, like a storm cloud waiting to burst. Whispers of uncertainty had begun to seep into their lives, and Eliska could sense the change, even if she didn’t fully understand it.

“Do you think the soldiers will come here, Mama?” Eliska asked suddenly, her voice barely above a whisper. The question hung in the air, heavy with unspoken fears.

Marie paused, her smile faltering for a moment. She knelt down to Eliska’s level, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “We mustn’t worry about things we cannot control, my love. We have each other, and that is what matters most.”

Eliska nodded, though her heart felt heavy. As they left the bakery, the sun continued to rise, illuminating the cobblestone streets and the majestic spires of Prague. But in the back of her mind, the question lingered: What would the future hold for them in this beautiful yet uncertain world?

As they walked home, the sound of distant drums echoed through the streets, a reminder of the growing unrest that loomed over their beloved city. Eliska squeezed her mother’s hand tighter, seeking comfort in the warmth of their bond. Little did they know, the echoes of freedom would soon call them to a journey they never expected.

With each step, the vibrant life of Prague felt both familiar and foreign, as if the city itself was holding its breath, waiting for the inevitable change that was about to unfold.

Eliska and Marie turned onto a narrow street lined with blooming cherry trees, their petals dancing in the gentle breeze. The beauty of the moment was a stark contrast to the unease that lingered in Eliska’s heart. She glanced up at her mother, who wore a brave face, but Eliska could see the worry etched in the lines around her eyes.