I love this book so far it gripped me from very start, I was hanging on edge of my seat on first couple pages and knew I had to read this. This book has been written so beautifully and so well presented that you never want to put it down. This book is all about a two teenage girls journey and survival though the war. I like how each chapter starts with actual World War Two fact, I find that really interesting specially as I’m so into history I love learning about the past. I love book like this as opens you eye to what people went thought and how they suffered but had to learn to survive in worst situations. I love the cover I found so eye catchy and made you want to pick it up. I just thing this book is well worth the read and definitely recommend. If you love first person book and book with story plus related to real life history this definitely the book for you.

I really enjoyed this book, the descriptions are so clear and you really feel like you’re there with the characters. I love reading stories focused around the war and feel that this is educational, emotional and heartwarming all at the same time. You really do feel like you’re going through the journeys with the characters and experiencing things alongside them. At times it was a bit upsetting but the friendship is the one thing that radiates throughout this whole book. It gives a heartwarming approach to the story and makes sure that it isn’t all doom and gloom. Despite the war being a traumatic time for many people this is a bit like a survivors story about the things that went on behind closed doors

This isn’t my usual read however I still enjoyed it despite the uncomfortable subject matter, I think fiction is a great way to open people’s eyes to history and if I’m honest I rarely consider the impact of WWII on other countries. There is such a contrast between the two main characters here, Simone the General’s daughter whose name alone allows her privilege and Hava who is ultimately judged purely by her Jewish religion. The strength of friendship between the two seems very strong, it would be easy to think they have been long term friends however in the time they have known each other they have built an enduring friendship. I enjoyed reading of the innocent pre war adventures they had together, it built up a good picture of them however I personally would have preferred more of a focus on the war and their evacuation. That said this is very moving and thought provoking and definitely a worthwhile read.

Having a PhD in history, and a very keen interest in the war era, I was instantly drawn to this book. I love anything with a historical setting, but this one was of particular interest to me. Within the setting, the story sounded like a true masterpiece. The story of love, but not lovers. No. That other, special kind of love. The love between two best friends. The story of what happens when that love is tested is enthralling, and beautifully written. The author truly captures the realities of the war and the impact on innocent civilians. Their historical knowledge is on point and the accuracy is 100%. But their ability to transport you into that setting, to make you feel like you are really there, watching this story unfold is on a whole other level. You really grow attach to the two central characters, you really root for them and their story is beautifully told. It is raw and heart wrenching and keeps you gripped until the very last page.

The Adrenalin induced introduction, throws you into the midst of a bomb raid. Simone is desperately trying to get to her Jewish friends house. The horror of the injuries she is subjected to along the way, leave you quivering with fear. It is emotionally intense. Simone has a father who is a decorated general, who is deemed heroically for his contribution to the protection of Belgium during World War One. His presence as a father is one of loving, compassionate and he educated his daughter on political and military events, as he is already preparing her for the possibility of another war. His valuable advise, will hold her in good stead for the hardships to come. Simone meets Hava, when they are both volunteers at the Red Cross. Hava, is a vibrant girl, loving the opera, song and dance and Simone idolises her carefree attitude. The revelation that Hava is Jewish, has little influence on Simone, but the oncoming war will tear at their friendship in so many ways. Well written, pulls at the heartstrings and the fact that it is a true story, makes you feel more connected to the characters.