A review by leweylibrary
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly

challenging dark emotional informative sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I will say that I did enjoy reading this book, even on audiobook which is hard for me with fiction, especially multiple POVs. It did take me a bit to sort out which MC is which.

I appreciate that the book is based on real women and history, but there were some liberties that were taken that, upon reflection run me the wrong way. The biggest and most conflicting one is the invented relationship with the fake, famous French actor. Like she couldn't care about the war and helping people in the concentration camps unless she had a guy to be in love with? I know the author says she thinks the real historical figure whom this women is based surely wouldn't mind, but I do.

I also in general think a lot of the resolution after the war happened way too quickly and cleanly. I don't buy that one conversation with the doctor
healed Katya and made her be a better mother
🤷‍♀️. 

But again I did enjoy it in the moment, and that counts for a lot with me!
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