This was one of those books that isn't read for entertainment, but more for contemplation. Between modern day and the days leading up to World War II, the narrative takes on an air of mystery with the death of Ivy's parents and her paternal grandparents trying to rekindle a relationship with Ivy and her sisters. This book is based in fact which gives a much darker picture of Europe under Hitler's regime. There are surprise elements that make it so satisfying to read.
The World War II narrative is told through Ivy's cousin, who tells it as an oral history that had been passed to her. The details of the story bring to the fore some of the darker events of the war, particularly the role Mengele played. It was a significantly ugly time in history, detailing the lengths men's depravity will go.
Because of Ivy's sister's reaction to the accident that killed their parents, Ivy believes there was a more sinister implication to the situation. After the case is closed, Ivy still digs until she comes up with an answer that truly satisfies her and helps her sister heal from the trauma.
The plot moves from Oregon to Pennsylvania to Germany back to Oregon and Pennsylvania. Each setting plays a role in moving the plot from one scene to the next and adds to the depth of the narrative.
There isn't much romance in the novel, it is more historical in nature, but it is also a coming of age novel where the characters grow and mature into adulthood and all that implies. Leslie Gould has done her due diligence in researching the events she describes. While it is disturbing to read about these events, it is necessary. That is why I give this book five stars.
Bethany House provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
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