Having a PhD in history, and a very keen interest in the war era, I was instantly drawn to this book. I love anything with a historical setting, but this one was of particular interest to me. Within the setting, the story sounded like a true masterpiece. The story of love, but not lovers. No. That other, special kind of love. The love between two best friends. The story of what happens when that love is tested is enthralling, and beautifully written. The author truly captures the realities of the war and the impact on innocent civilians. Their historical knowledge is on point and the accuracy is 100%. But their ability to transport you into that setting, to make you feel like you are really there, watching this story unfold is on a whole other level. You really grow attach to the two central characters, you really root for them and their story is beautifully told. It is raw and heart wrenching and keeps you gripped until the very last page.