The Ratline

Through a captivating true story, Philippe Sands delves into the daily lives of Otto Freiherr von Wächter, a senior Nazi SS Brigadeführer, and his wife, Charlotte. By utilizing a vast collection of family letters and diaries, Sands provides a unique insight into their experiences before and during the war, from fleeing in the Alps to seeking refuge in Rome, and even during the Cold War. The enigma surrounding Wächter's youngest son and his belief in his father's innocence prompts Sands to uncover the truth about what truly happened to Otto Wächter as he prepared to flee to Argentina on the infamous 'ratline', with the help of a Vatican bishop, and the mystery behind his unexpected death.