Annette Oppenlander

Annette Oppenlander is an award-winning writer, literary coach and educator. As a bestselling historical novelist, Oppenlander is known for her authentic characters and stories based on true events, coming alive in well-researched settings. Having lived in Germany the first half of her life and the second half in various parts of the U.S., Oppenlander inspires readers by illuminating story questions as relevant today as they were in the past.

Oppenlander’s bestselling true WWII story, Surviving the Fatherland, received multiple nominations/awards. Kohlenträume (Coal Dreams) won the 2025 Kindle Storyteller Award from Amazon Germany. Uniquely, Oppenlander weaves actual historical figures and events into her plots, giving readers a flavor of true history while enjoying an exciting story.

Oppenlander shares her knowledge through writing workshops at colleges, libraries, festivals and schools. She also offers vivid presentations and author visits. The mother of fraternal twins and a son, she now lives with her husband and Kromfohrländer Archie in the beautiful Münsterland in Germany.

Awards

National Indie Excellence Award, Gold Global eBook Award, B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree for Surviving the Fatherland and The Scent of a Storm, Chill with a Book Readers’ Award, Finalist Kindle Book Awards, Readers’ Favorite Book Award, Discovered Diamond Historical Novel, IWIC Hall of Fame Novel, Skoutz Award Silver (Germany), 2025 Kindle Storyteller Award Amazon Germany