Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Nightingale in Books
Aug 12, 2021
This was an excellent and informational portrayal of World War II. It's haunting and heartbreaking and hopeful all together. Hannah tells the story of the War through our two sisters--looking at how they approach the war, along with their father. Vianne is the practical older sister, who worries for her safety and that of her daughter. Meanwhile, Isabelle has felt betrayed most of her life after the death of their mother and perceived abandonment by her older sister and father. This feeling spurs her to join the Resistance. Following their different paths allows us to see many varied sides of this awful and terrifying War. As you form attachments to the characters, the snatching of Jewish families and children and the concentration camps become even more stark and brutal--it's horrifying.
While I cannot really know what happened during this time period, this book seemed realistic and authentic to me. It made me cry. It's sad and yet somehow sweet at times. It's a vivid look at loss and love--for sisters, family, and your country.
I read this book as part of my new reading project--choosing books off my shelves based on their Goodreads rankings. This is my first book of the project, forcing me out of my comfort zone and to try books in genres I don't usually read!
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Merissa (14056 KP) rated Fables & Lies: A WWII Novel Based on a True Story in Books
Jul 3, 2026
This was a gripping story that completely held my attention. It is sensitively written, while still showing the difficulties and horrors faced by the German people who didn't necessarily agree 100% with what they were being told.
I have lived in Germany for sixteen years, and I respect their attitude to the First and Second World Wars. They teach it in the schools as lessons to be learnt, to ensure it doesn't happen again. So reading a story from their perspective was really eye-opening.
If reading about the Second World War is something that fascinates you, then I can HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book.
** The same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 3, 2026
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