A review by notinjersey
This Rebel Heart by Katherine Locke

4.0

I have read multiple books set in Communist Europe recently! This Rebel Heart takes place in Hungary in 1956 and centers Jewish and Queer characters taking part in the revolution against the government at the time. ⁣Csilla is the main character here. She and her parents survived the Holocaust, but then her parents were killed by the Hungarian secret police. Csilla plans to leave the country but when her parents are exonerated, protests begin and Csilla must decide whether to stay and fight for her country. ⁣This book contains magical elements – the city has lost all of its color, the river carries magic power, and Jewish folklore comes to life. I found it long in parts, but very creative. The representation in this book includes a polyamorous relationship between Csilla, Tamas, and Azriel. ⁣This book is about taking action and standing up for what you believe. The young people took part in uprisings in Europe and having also read I Must Betray You, This Rebel Heart could be read by those who enjoyed that one and also appreciate a magical touch. ⁣