The Nightingale

Beautiful ending to a heartbreaking story. It took me a good bit to get into, but the story was very well told throughout.

The Nightingale focuses on the women and children who are left behind when their husbands and fathers must go off to war. It follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the terrifying ways Germany has taken over France during WWII. Both sisters are a saving grace for many.

In some ways it feels weird to say that you enjoyed a book where the characters must deal with events that truly happened to people who lived during the war. Of course, the circumstances are by no means enjoyable, but seeing the ways they learned to survive, the close and emotional bonds they had with each other, and their dedication to risking their lives to help others and make a difference makes for a very moving story.

I love the strong relationships and the great character development from all the characters over the course of the story. Dealing with loss, fear, hope, courage, and love in a time of war brings everyone together in a way like no other.