Many thanks to my friends at @gallerybooks and @simon.audio for the #gifted copies.

 

“Under these stars, fate will guide you home.”

 

Heartbreaking and emotional. 

 

Two mothers.  Two daughters.  As tensions escalate in war torn France, hard decisions can’t be avoided. 

 

The backdrop of WW2 is deeply felt throughout this narrative, but it isn’t the focal point.  This is a story of sacrifice and hard choices.  It’s a look at motherhood in the most trying times.   

 

Well researched and full of heart, Harmel paints a heart-rending picture of resilience that took me through the full range of emotions: tenderness, sadness, rage, and hope.  There’s also an important reminder about the dangers of allowing grief and anger to take root.  Harmel knows how to pull at the heartstrings and create timeless messaging.

 

The author’s note is a must read.  It gave me a greater appreciation of this story, steeped in facts and created with thoughtful purpose.  

“If we know more about the past, we are better prepared to face the future and whatever comes our way.” 

 

This made for another great discussion with my friends @andrea.c.lowry and @thebookclubmom

 

🎧 The audiobook, narrated by Madeline Mabry, brought the story to life, creating nuance to each POV and accentuating the gamut of emotion portrayed throughout the plot.