History Lesson thru Fiction
937119
I found it interesting, and somewhat surprising, in regard to the Father's changing character unfolding to the very end of his life.  The book revealed the horrible predicament in which France found itself in the early part of the Nazi invasion, and the weakness of their defenses and lack of preparation for  war.  The large presence of communism and socialist in the government led to a very divided society.

The author presented a very clear picture of the local life of lack of food, fear, and intimidation of local population.  The ever presence of jewish
hunting and fear of the round-ups and shipment to the  concentration camps in Germany; A well as  the horrors of life in the various camps and
the degradation  of work, death, medical experiment concentration camps,"Arbeiten mach Frei".

The work of the Underground and the Nightingale gave a good picture of the heros of French Society during World War Two.
1977390
The history lesson alone makes it a good read .
You really don't expect it o be a " who's done it " book, but not only was it just that but really well done.
I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
4158391
I just started reading historical fiction and really enjoyed this book. I liked learning a little more about history in a more personal style.
4654460
The postmodern/magical realism came as a huge surprise after many pages of realistic, historical fiction.  I love when authors surprise  me like that.
The historical lessons that one can see in the novel seem relevant to today, especially in the political climate.
Read it.
1416553
A great read!  Really enjoyed learning about real people combined with fiction. Loved it.
2413949
Historical fiction is my favorite read but I want to be thoroughly entertained while learning some solid history. This book does just that; an astonishing blend of fictional and real characters woven into historical events in a highly readable saga that sweeps from the U.S. Civil War through the Spanish American war to the cusp of WW I.  Following the very human and complex protagonist, Beverly Bethany Quinn, we live through the Siege of Vicksburg, post-war hardships, travel Europe, board sailing vessels and battleships and live in Cuba while the events and deceptions leading to Remember the Maine are intricately told; we understand how wars horrors in one time and place spread far to affect other countries and haunt future generations.  It is impossible to tell where the line lies between truth and fiction as the fictitious characters and famous historic figures interact yet the authors extensive research and factual detailed descriptions assure the reader of authenticity.  As the tag line from a beloved 1950s Walter Cronkite TV series said, all things are as they were then and you are there.
2228128
I enjoyed this series of books. While it is fiction the author includes so true history into his books.
You must read this series in order to get the most enjoyment from the books
8681
This well written book was quite a history lesson.  I highly recommend this novel to anyone that loves a great story based on historial events.
3275371
Just a wonderful history lesson intermixed with several human interest stories.  You will love it.
3029396
I love fictional history.  Amazing story about what happened to so many children who were orphaned during that time in history.  Great book club discussions
3108440
This was a good book with a plot that intertwined history and fiction. I would read more by this author.
4941860
Great historical fiction book. I recommend it to learn about American Historiy during WWII from a different perspective.
3338390
Love the fiction weaved into historical events very believable.  Still I'd like to witness real stories from historical events, like cod WWII.  The Korean War, Vietnam War,  WWI, The Civil War, and The Revolutionary War.  A game dealing with these wars in an honest story that reveals the reality of the wars and doesn't sugar coat it with heroism.
2173370
Mr. Berent  did a good job intertwining history and fiction.  Seems like he was there and lived it.
3364491
Although the characters are fictional as far as I know, the authors weave the facts of those times into a thrilling story.
1684865
I really enjoyed this book.  Historical fiction is my way of learning history.  Ms. Howe's combination of historical fiction and paranormal really makes this a fun yet educational read.  I loved her explanation of the superstitions of the 16th and 17th Centuries and the many unknown facts of the Salem Witch Trials.  I am looking forward to reading her next book.
4809080
Well written mixture of fiction and non-fiction.  The story is fiction based on historical accuracy.  I felt I met memorable characters and gained a better understanding of our American history.