Actual Rating: 4.5/5

I've only read 3 historical fiction novels in my life, including this one, 2 of which were written by Khaled Hosseini. I really need to read more of this genre, because, so far, I've loved every single historical fiction novel I've read.

As a whole, this was a novel that really messed with my emotions. While some of the characters were not particularly likeable, at least not the entire time, it was easy to sympathize with them, understand them, and feel what they were going through.

This novel made me tear up, broke my heart and had me holding my breath from suspense.

It really gave me a feel of the situation in Afghanistan during a time of chaos, and really made me think about the true meaning and effects of family and of guilt.

If you're in the mood for some historical fiction, for a heartbreaking story that deals with heavier topics, then I highly, highly recommend this book.