A review by modernmatilda
Lovely War by Julie Berry

challenging dark emotional inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

 Lovely War by Julie Berry left me speechless.

For starters, I knew a book about four young adults during World War I would be devastating and heartbreaking. I knew a book about a gorgeous love story would be lovely beyond words. I knew a book told from the perspective of goddess Aphrodite (and several other Greek gods) would be unique and stunning. But I was not prepared for this gorgeous, gorgeous book.

If I could only recommend one historical fiction book for the rest of my life, I think it might be this one. The ending was poetic, the themes of love and war were unraveled so well, the characters were incredibly memorable, and the tears I shed throughout were huge.

Also, Berry's interpretation of Hades is a big cinnamon roll, so we stan that.

I appreciated the author's notes at the end of the book, especially since this was a white author writing about a Black musician/soldier character. The sensitivity in which she researched the history seemed thoughtful; although I am not a reviewer from this identity so my words should be taken with a grain of salt.

This book felt so sincere, sensitive, and heart-driven. I'm thankful that it helped opened up some really great conversations with other readers about the delicate line between "reading/writing historical fiction books for enjoyment" and "reading/writing historical fiction books to honor and teach history" and how important respect and research are in that journey.

I wish Collette would have been more complete and/or there was another character to represent another kind of love, but overall I treasured this story. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings