The Taster, by V. A. Alexander
Summary:“A young German woman is recruited for an unusual position on Hitler’s staff.
In 1943, alarmed by increasing Allied air raids on Berlin, Magda Ritter’s parents send her to Berchtesgaden, a remote Bavarian Alpine town. When she arrives, Magda’s uncle Willy, a staunch Nazi, wangles her a position at The Berghof, Adolf Hitler’s nearby mountain citadel. After a grueling interview process, during which Magda must downplay her lack of Nazi sympathies, she is hired, but she’s startled to learn that her duties will involve tasting Hitler’s meals to ensure that he’s not being poisoned. Her training includes learning to recognize the characteristics of various poisons, including the almond scent of cyanide.”
– Kirkus Reviews https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/vs-alexander/the-taster/
Review:
Thus begins the story of Magda Ritter, who does not sympathize with Hitler and the Reich. But she finds herself having to hide those feelings as she becomes one of the food tasters for Hitler.
This is historical fiction. I have to say that historical fiction is just about my favorite genre. I like reading a novel that gives me a sense of what life was like during the period of the story. For example, this book put me right in the kitchen and the life of Hitler during his last days.
It is a well researched fictional account, told in the narrative of Magna, a servant who must hide her hatred of Hitler, as she risks her life, tasting the food he eats. Magna is a very likable character. We also gain insight into Hitler’s life, the life of his longtime love, Eva Braun and we see some of the inner workings of the Party. There is a love interest with Eva and one of Hitler’s trusted officers, Captain Karl Weber. It is a sweet relationship with interesting turns along the way.
I really liked reading this book. It is a unique story, told in the first person narrative of a servant of Hitler. I never even thought that there were such positions as tasters for Hitler. The author does a fantastic job of putting the reader in the story and that alone is great. Also, this book captured my attention from start to finish.
I highly recommend this novel, especially if you like historical fiction.
My star review:
4.5 out of 5 stars
If you liked The Taster you shoud also read The Nightingale, by Kristin Hannah.
