I really appreciated how real this story felt. Not just because it is based on a true story, but because it feels as though it captures life as it actually could have been—during the war and particularly in its aftermath, in both Europe and the United States—without necessarily being overly detailed…
What a story. I originally picked this book up because the cover, title, and synopsis intrigued me. It wasn’t until I was already a good ~20% in that I realized it was actually book two of a trilogy. So, naturally, I paused, went back, and read book one first…
Every so often I come across a WWII novel that offers a perspective I haven’t read before, and The Night Sparrow was one of those books. Told through the eyes of a female Soviet Jewish sniper, it dives into a part of history that is often overlooked, giving space to stories that deserve to be remembered.
Elie Wiesel’s Night is not just a book—it is a testimony, a warning, and an unflinching look into the depths of human cruelty. It is the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you finish it, not because of elaborate prose or dramatic storytelling, but because every word feels like a wound that refuses to heal. This is a book that demands to be read.
In Genevieve Graham’s The Secret Keeper, Dot and Dash Wilson, twin sisters with contrasting passions, find themselves thrust into World War II’s turmoil. Their journey, intricately woven against Canada’s backdrop, illuminates the often-overlooked roles of female heroes. Graham’s expert storytelling evokes a myriad of emotions, leaving an indelible mark on readers’ hearts.
The Last Day in Paris by Suzanne Kelman offers an exploration of love and sacrifice during WWII. Dual timelines follow Brigitte and Isabelle in Paris, and Esther in England, unraveling mysteries of family heritage. While some character nuances falter, Isabelle’s inspired portrayal captivates, and lingering questions that demand answers leave readers eager for the next installment.
In this January 2024 wrap-up, a spectrum of literary experiences unfolded, earning ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars. Rebecca Yarros’s ‘Fourth Wing’ showcased aerial prowess, while K.L. Ziggler’s ‘Of Spies and Shadows’ skillfully interwove magic into the romantasy genre. Ash Remington’s ‘Isolating Contact’ stood out as a compelling intergalactic science fiction narrative.
While Veterans Day honors U.S. military veterans, Remembrance Day is celebrated by many nations, originally marking the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I. In a tribute to our heroes and my fellow servicemen and women, we’re sharing a selection of books that honor their courage, resilience, sacrifice, and spirit.
From historical romance to fantastical realms, October 2023’s wrap-up spanned eras and emotions. Delight in Sarah M. Eden’s charming “The Lancaster Family” series or Jennifer Anton’s WWII saga “Under the Light of the Italian Moon.” Other diverse tales promise more excitement ahead. Happy reading!
Syndrome K was a neurological illness “that began with convulsions and dementia and led to paralysis and death from asphyxia.” This ailment, which terrified the Nazi soldiers occupying the city, reportedly saved anywhere from 20 to over 100 Jews who were destined for the Auschwitz concentration camp. But how was this possible during an epidemic of such a lethal sickness?
“In the vast majority of cases, Jews who survived the Holocaust in Italy did so in one (or more) of three ways: by blending in with the non-Jewish population; by fleeing over the border into Switzerland; or by taking refuge in private homes, church dormitories or convents, or medical institutions.”
The infamous Cold War of the mid-twentieth century sprung from the discord between the Soviet Union and the United States following World War II in 1945. This conflict led to several significances such as a second “Red Scare,” containment, a nuclear arms race, and the “Space Race.”
