By Marianne Monson
NOTE – Special thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
British sisters Ida and Louise Cook use their love of opera as means to travel back and from between Germany and England while saving the lives of Jewish people.
Lately, it seems like every time I read historical fiction, I learn something new. This book was so different. I had no idea these two women existed and I was completely unaware of their bravery. Also, while I knew London got hit hard during this war, I found myself really saddened by just how hard. I wasn’t aware how many civilians lost their lives. I also didn’t know that Hitler actually did declare war on the United States and looked forward to taking her down. So this book was quite an education.
What worked really well for me:
- This book was very well researched. From opera to historical facts, research poured into every page. Footnotes were included at the bottom to give resources from where information came from.
- There was a lot of emotion in this story. There wasn’t one character that didn’t make me feel something.
- The story itself was brave and bravely told. It kept a good pace but the story itself kept you going, wanting to know what was next and who was saved..and who didn’t make it.
- The character growth was really present. Louisa and Ida are made completely different by the war and their actions during the war. Their whole family changes.
What didn’t work for me:
- The ending seemed a little abrupt. Although, that could have been me because I really wanted to know so much more about these ladies.
- If you don’t know opera, there were some spots that got quite technical. I grew up on opera so I was able to fully appreciate those moments.
Out of all the historical fiction you may read, make this book one that you do. One quote especially resonated with me after experiencing these past couple of years:
“My dears, the past few years have enlightened us all,” Rosa told them. “It’s easy to think there are sharp lines dividing the good people and bad people, but most humans have dark passions inside waiting to be stirred up. It’s easier than we think to become convinced that decency is for the weak, that democracy is naive, that kindness and respect for others are ridiculous. The whole world has been reminded these past few years that the things we care about have to be nurtured and defended because even seemingly good people have the potential to do hideous things.”
My rating: :star: :star: :star: :star: :star:
Faith Love n Joy 