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3.96 AVERAGE
3.96 AVERAGE
Loved this book. I had never heard about the vel d'hiv. For me it was very interesting historically as well as the French setting.
Though occasionally contrived, this novel was a page-turner. I'd recommend it if you are intrigued by any of the following: Paris, French culture, children, WW2, dual narration.
adventurous
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced
Great story, great book. Opened my eyes to a part of history that many people have forgotten. Great read!
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Prachtig boek. Liet me niet los. Ik ga zeker nog de film kijken.
This novel was very compelling! I was immediately wrapped up into both Sarah and Julia's intertwining lives and I was fascinating & horrified to learn more about the Vel d'Hiv.
challenging
dark
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book surprised me. The characters were well written but I felt something was missing that I just couldn't put my finger on. Maybe a bit stereotypical? The plot was engrossing and not very predictable and I couldn't put the last quarter of the book down. The frequent "chapters" meant that I put the first three quarters down quite often but it was well paced. I must admit to being ignorant to the plight of France in general during wartime, having known more about Eastern Europe. I learnt a lot without it sounding like a history non-fiction text. The end was quite good but I felt a little let down - I think I expected something more realistic. A very moving story and some of the writing will live in my mind forever.
This book was fantastic! Such a great story that I couldn't put it down. I am not a fan of historical fiction but this book is realistic fiction around historical events.