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knit_the_resistance 's review for:
The Summer Before the War
by Helen Simonson
emotional
funny
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A slow, gentle amble through the British countryside in the lead up to WWI, this book reveals and skewers social norms. It explores themes of women in the workforce, social structure, prejudice towards Roma, homophobia, r*pe, unwed mothers... Under layers of ribbons and lace and cigar smoke and copious cups of tea.