Scan barcode
A review by bookishbird
Their Finest Hour and a Half by Lissa Evans
3.0
Overall, I liked this book. I loved the premise and thought it had a lot of promise. The creation of propaganda films in London during WWII in the midst of the blitz is a captivating topic. I thought the character's were endearing...all except Ambrose, who is a pompous, delusional man throughout the majority of the book, but does grow on you *a bit* by the end. Evans's ability to create a character who makes you roll your eyes and gag is masterful.
While it was not particularly difficult to follow the POV switches, it was jarring at times because the previous character didn't always feel quite "finished" in that moment and then the story moved on. I felt this way too with the time jumps, although I quite understand that the book could not (and should not) have been any longer. I think what I am trying to say is that some sections could have been more effective. There was so much Ambrose (at least that's what it felt like) and not enough Catrin. By the time she really came into her own, she hardly had story left. I will say that Evans does a great job of weaving all of the storylines together. That was very well done.
While I do not want to give anything away, I will be honest and say that if a certain event hadn't occurred towards the end (when you read it you will know), I probably would have rated this book higher. That, of, course, is a completely personal feeling.
I liked this book. I can't rave about it, but I would recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction and multiple POV stories.
While it was not particularly difficult to follow the POV switches, it was jarring at times because the previous character didn't always feel quite "finished" in that moment and then the story moved on. I felt this way too with the time jumps, although I quite understand that the book could not (and should not) have been any longer. I think what I am trying to say is that some sections could have been more effective. There was so much Ambrose (at least that's what it felt like) and not enough Catrin. By the time she really came into her own, she hardly had story left. I will say that Evans does a great job of weaving all of the storylines together. That was very well done.
While I do not want to give anything away, I will be honest and say that if a certain event hadn't occurred towards the end (when you read it you will know), I probably would have rated this book higher. That, of, course, is a completely personal feeling.
I liked this book. I can't rave about it, but I would recommend it to those who enjoy historical fiction and multiple POV stories.