ABOUT US

       Dear Friends,

‘Hostages for Life’ is a historical fiction novel which is partially based on the authors’ experiences and is partly inspired by real life events.

This book is based on the travelers who had left the United States of America in 1936 at the height of the Great Depression. At that time there seemed to be no other hope to keep your family together but to believe in the social rhetoric given in the American and London newspapers by the Soviet society. The dark austere cold nation of the Soviet Union was ahead of them and was in stark contrast to the freedom of the West. The small group of travelers did not know what they were facing.

‘Hostages for Life’ tells the harrowing and poignant story of an American family that, amid Stalin’s terror, found themselves trapped behind the Iron Curtain. This narrative, inspired by the real-life experiences of those who lived through one of the most oppressive regimes in history, resonates powerfully with contemporary themes of freedom, survival, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

In today’s world, where issues of authoritarianism, displacement, and the search for personal identity in the face of political turmoil are ever-present, I and my co-authors believe that this story is not only timely but essential. The experiences of our characters—particularly the two female members who, after 40 long years, finally returned to their homeland—echo the struggles and triumphs of many who face similar challenges today. The resilience and courage of these women, and the tragic fate of their family, offer profound lessons that will resonate with readers across cultures and generations.               

I am enthusiastic about how you will feel about my storytelling.

      Sincerely yours,

      Ilona Zwolska.