I wasn't sure about this book when I first started it, the opening consisting of a rather graphic sexual scene. However, I'm glad I persevered and got into the interesting story of the multiple characters and their links to each other. I am a huge fan of historical fiction and non-fiction writing, and this book sets the context in World War II and some of the people mentioned are real, even if most of the characters are fictional. It is an intriguing tale of seduction, lies, twists and turns and how people coped during this time any way they could. The characters are, for the most part, clearly developed and the mystery surrounding some of these characters is what drives the plot. It is excellent writing from the author, and I enjoyed it very much.