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"The Devil in Vienna" by Doris Orgel is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the complexities of life during the rise of Nazism through the eyes of a young girl, Eva. Set in Vienna during the late 1930s, the novel vividly portrays the fear, confusion, and moral dilemmas that arose as the Nazi regime began to take hold of Austria. The story is set against the backdrop of the Anschluss, the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany, which serves as both a personal and political crisis for the characters in the book.The narrative is primarily told from Eva's perspective, allowing readers to experience the shifting atmosphere of Vienna from a child's point of view. Eva's world is one of contrasts: her family is Jewish, and as the political landscape changes, so too does her understanding of her identity and the dangers surrounding her. Her innocence provides a stark contrast to the rapidly escalating violence and oppression, emphasizing the brutality of the situation. The novel underscores how children, despite their limited understanding, are not immune to the horrors of war and the destructive ideologies of the time.Eva’s interactions with her family, particularly her mother and grandfather, highlight the generational divide in how to respond to the impending threat. Her mother, who is concerned about protecting Eva, represents a more pragmatic and cautious response, while her grandfather holds more defiant views, ultimately becoming a victim of the Nazi occupation. This tension between fear and defiance is a central theme in the novel, illustrating how individuals navigate moral choices in the face of overwhelming evil.One of the key aspects of "The Devil in Vienna" is its portrayal of the impact of the Nazis on everyday life. The novel demonstrates how, as the regime tightens its grip on Austria, people are forced to confront not only the physical dangers of persecution but also the psychological and emotional toll it takes on those who resist or are complicit in the system. Eva’s internal struggle, as she tries to comprehend the unfolding events, mirrors the confusion and fear felt by many at the time, especially as it becomes increasingly difficult to trust anyone, even those closest to them.Orgel also uses Eva’s relationship with a mysterious character, known as the "devil," to symbolize the insidious nature of evil. This character, who appears to Eva in her dreams, serves as a manifestation of the growing threat of Nazism. Through these encounters, the novel delves into the psychological warfare waged by totalitarian regimes, which prey on fear and uncertainty to control individuals. The figure of the "devil" is both literal and symbolic, representing not just the fascist regime but the larger forces of hatred and violence that consume societies during times of war.The novel also explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival, particularly through Eva’s interactions with those who either collaborate with the Nazis or refuse to stand against them. These choices are not always clear-cut, and Orgel examines the moral gray areas in a society under extreme duress. Through Eva’s eyes, readers witness the deepening moral crisis faced by individuals who must choose between self-preservation and standing up for what is right.Orgel’s prose is simple yet evocative, capturing the emotional depth of the story without resorting to overt sentimentality. The novel’s emotional power comes from its quiet moments of tension, where the fear of the unknown and the consequences of actions become painfully clear. The writing reflects Eva's shifting understanding of the world around her, providing insight into the inner turmoil of a young girl coming to terms with a devastating reality.In "The Devil in Vienna," Doris Orgel has created a novel that is not just a historical account but a timeless exploration of the human condition under the shadow of tyranny. The book captures the resilience of the human spirit while acknowledging the profound effects of hate and intolerance. Through its focus on a young girl’s coming-of-age in the face of monstrous evil, the novel offers a compelling meditation on the complexities of morality, identity, and survival in times of crisis.