This is a WWII story, but it's about the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff, which is considered to be the largest maritime disaster in history. I hadn't heard about it before reading this book, and the story is so heartbreaking! Over 9,000 people lost their lives in this disaster, and the tragedy is reflected in Sepetys's writing.

What I liked about this was the way Sepetys pulls you into each character's story with little snippets, gradually showing how they all come together. It makes the story fast-paced, pulling you into each of their stories, rooting for them to make it. I can see why her novels get so much acclaim; the writing is fantastic. I will definitely have to check out her other books.