From New York Times bestselling author Sadeqa Johnson, the acclaimed author of The House of Eve and Yellow Wife, comes Keeper of Lost Children—a powerful historical novel about identity, family, love, and the lives forever changed by the aftermath of World War II.

Set across post-war Germany and the United States, this sweeping story follows three unforgettable characters whose lives become intertwined through one extraordinary act of compassion.

In 1950s Occupied Germany, Ethel Gathers, the wife of an American Army officer, discovers an orphanage filled with abandoned mixed-race children born to German women and Black American soldiers. Determined to give these forgotten children a chance at a better future, she embarks on a mission that will alter countless lives.

Meanwhile, Ozzie Phillips, a young Black American soldier stationed in Germany after the military's desegregation, falls deeply in love with a local woman, creating a relationship that defies expectations and leaves lasting consequences.

Years later in 1965 Maryland, Sophia Clark receives the opportunity to attend an elite boarding school, only to uncover a family secret that sends her searching for the truth about her own identity.

Beautifully written and emotionally rich, Keeper of Lost Children explores race, belonging, sacrifice, motherhood, resilience, and the enduring power of love across generations.

Why You'll Love Keeper of Lost Children

• New York Times bestselling author
• Sweeping historical fiction
• Multiple interconnected storylines
• Richly developed characters
• Family secrets and identity
• Based on little-known post-WWII history
• Emotional and thought-provoking
• Perfect for historical fiction book clubs

Themes & Tropes

• Historical fiction
• Family secrets
• Found family
• Identity and belonging
• Post-World War II Germany
• Forbidden love
• Multi-generational storytelling
• Hope and redemption

Perfect For Fans Of

• Kristin Hannah
• Kate Quinn
• Marie Benedict
• Brit Bennett
• Lisa Wingate
• The House of Eve
• Historical women's fiction
• Reese's Book Club selections

Book Details

Title: Keeper of Lost Children

Author: Sadeqa Johnson

Format: Hardcover

Genre:

• Historical Fiction
• Women's Fiction
• Literary Fiction

Pages:
464

Publication Date:
February 10, 2026

Dimensions:
9.1 × 6.3 × 1.4 inches

About the Author

Sadeqa Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of The House of Eve, Yellow Wife, and several acclaimed novels. Her work has been selected by Reese's Book Club, nominated for NAACP Image Awards, and recognized by Goodreads Choice Awards. Known for bringing overlooked moments in history to life through unforgettable characters, she lives near Richmond, Virginia.