Reviews

از شن و خاکستر by Amy Harmon

thestagedstory's review against another edition

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5.0

This story was completely heartbreaking but absolutely beautiful. Harmon’s writing is almost lyrical and completely wraps you up in the story. I listened to the audio of this and felt the narrator was fantastic!

oglbe's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

stratfam's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a love story between an Italian priest and a Jewish woman during World War II. I loved and respected both of them. Toward the end of the book, they experienced a miracle. At first I thought I might roll my eyes at the turn of events, but then I remembered that I believe in miracles. This book helped me believe in them a little more.

nzkiwishen's review against another edition

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5.0

Third read 11/2-12/4: I freaking love everything in this book. It’s been close to two years since I’ve read it, and I’d forgotten so many of the details! I love Eva’s spirit and dedication, Angelo’s struggles, and the hope that is woven throughout the book, despite the horrors that happen all around the characters. The scene with the caves guts me. Every time. This is such a well researched and beautifully written book.

Second read 2/27 - 3/11: I didn't know it would be possible, but I loved this book even more the second time through. I learned so much about history, religion, and human resiliency by reading this book.

I've been trying to figure out the best way to express how I feel about this book. Unfortunately, I'm not as good with words as many others out there, but I'll do my best. :)

As I've mentioned before, I love books based out of the WWII time period. I love reading about the people who overcame odds that seemed to beat them down. I feel sad for all the people who went through those atrocities, both those that lived and those that died, but reading their stories helps me to remember what is important to me.

This book isn't like any of the other war books I've read. This book is so thought provoking! Most history stories are, but this one was different. I learned so much about Judaism and Catholicism, heard stories I hadn't previously known, and really was able to draw some personal learning and wisdom from it. There are so many inspiring words and quotes in this book, and I will definitely be reading this one again and again. I'm so thankful that there are wonderful authors out there that are willing to share their words and talent with those of us that "aren't so good with words."

kristen107's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Highly recommend the audio version!

simplyxkate's review against another edition

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5.0

I'm gutted. Bravo to Amy Harmon for creating a beautiful love story amidst one of history's ugliest moments. The love between Eva and Angelo, a Jewish woman and a Catholic priest in WWII-era Italy, is so unique and powerful, it inspires them to be brave and fight to survive when it seems there's nothing left to do but give up. I felt their pain and struggles as I was reading and I desperately hoped they'd find their way to a happy ending. This book was so hard to read being that it's heavily based on true events but it's so worth it. Highly recommended to anyone who loves historical fiction/romance.

imaginee0's review against another edition

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3.0

3.5

vene121's review against another edition

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5.0

Amy Harmon has become one of my favorite authors. She consistently writes beautiful stories with rich characters.

tonyriver's review against another edition

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4.0

I really enjoyed this book. It is a strong story about interesting characters with lives filled with struggle and tragedy at an unthinkably awful time in our modern history.

Really worth reading.

jennchandler's review against another edition

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5.0

4.5 stars. I enjoyed this. A few romance scenes, but nothing explicit, which I greatly appreciated. Good characters and story. Also, often historically accurate.